The food and beverage industry is at a pivotal point going into 2025. Companies understand digital transformation is essential, but they are spoiled for choice and every decision is fraught with challenges. The result is companies are falling behind due to “option paralysis” and a reluctance to disrupt existing systems.
Food and beverage was a key market of the recent IFS report, which surveyed global manufacturing leaders. IFS found that while manufacturing leaders admit their businesses cannot survive without the right technology, fewer than 10% qualify as digital leaders. A striking 65% of respondents labeled themselves as “laggards,” who are falling dangerously behind and have stalled at the early stages of digital transformation with no firm plans in place.