The results are in for PLEX’s State of Manufacturing Report 2020, and they show the food and beverage industry is in many ways out in front of other industries in terms of adopting new technologies to maximize efficiency, competitiveness and profits. The study, developed with the support of LNS Research, surveyed approximately 200 manufacturers from all categories who revealed a desire to realize the alluring promise of smart manufacturing. The study explores common manufacturing challenges alongside evolving technology solutions, with looking toward creating a blueprint that helps companies navigate and achieve business transformation.
While the study was conducted in December 2019 before the breakout of COVID-19, the vast majority (92%) of manufacturers responding to the survey had grown financially—or remained flat—in 2019. The momentum of 2019 made many manufacturers optimistic about their future, with most planning for ongoing growth this year.