Articles by Alyse Thompson-Richards

Many food manufacturers may not know where to begin implementing AI, and new research from IFS shows they’re not alone. However, to realize gains and stay competitive, getting started is key. 

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards recaps some recent plant openings, expansions and investments in the food and beverage industry.

Food and beverage manufacturers are investing in equipment and training despite difficult economic conditions.

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards recaps some recent plant openings, expansions and investments in the food and beverage industry.

AI, automation and consumer trends continue to drive change in food and beverage manufacturing, according to our 2025 State of Food Manufacturing survey.

For its 10th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report, Rockwell Automation surveyed 1,560 manufacturing leaders about the internal and external challenges they face and how they’re using technology to address them.

While sales were largely down under dynamic economic and geopolitical conditions, some of the world’s top food and beverage manufacturers experienced revenue growth.

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards recaps some recent plant openings and expansions in the food and beverage industry, including Mars’ new Nature’s Bakery facility, CJ Schwan’s distribution center, Chomps’ Missouri manufacturing facility, Westrock Coffee’s single-serve coffee products plant and Puratos’ pilot bakery facility.

EIC Alyse Thompson-Richards recaps some recent plant openings and expansions in the food and beverage industry, including Cayuga Milk Ingredients’ expansion, Grillo’s Pickles Indiana plant, Morinaga’s N.C. facility, Kervan’s Pennsylvania confectionery plant and Heineken’s global R&D center.

FOOD ENGINEERING’s 48th Annual Plant Construction Survey reveals food and beverage manufacturers are taking a cautious approach to capital expenditure, but even with economic uncertainty, the industry continues to invest in smart, sustainable manufacturing.