| | |

New Study Finds Workforce Challenges Emerge as a Top Concern Among CPG Manufacturers

August 27, 2024

New Study Finds Workforce Challenges Emerge as a Top Concern Among CPG Manufacturers

Global study reveals critical workforce issues, rising technology budgets, and evolving strategic priorities for CPG manufacturers.

Rockwell Automation, Inc. one of the world’s largest companies dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, have announced the results of the 9th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report: CPG Edition.” The global study encompasses the responses of 158 leaders from CPG manufacturers, inclusive of home and personal care, as well as food and beverage manufacturers, across 17 of the leading manufacturing countries.

This year’s report highlights the evolution of the CPG industry, specifically about utilizing emerging technologies to maximize workforce potential, improve forward planning and minimize risk. CPG leaders acknowledge that neglecting to adapt to the industry’s transformation can stifle growth and competitiveness, especially considering that the manufacturing sector could see up to 2.1 million unfilled jobs by 2030

 if current workforce challenges are not addressed.

Key global findings include:

  • Workforce issues, inflation and the energy crisis are the top external obstacles for CPG manufacturers in 2024.
  • 86% of CPG manufacturers are using or evaluating smart manufacturing technology in 2024.
  • Technology investments increased 26% year-over-year, from 21% to 27% of the operating budget.
  • Blockchain technology is listed as one of the top 10 investment areas for CPG manufacturers in 2024, ranking second overall.
  • Training current employees on new processes is the top workforce-related obstacle for CPG manufacturers in 2024.
  • Product quality is the factor that matters most to CPG manufacturers’ ESG programs.

“As CPG manufacturing leaders navigate a complex and evolving landscape, they are realizing that the ability to support their workforce will be a critical factor for success,” said Steve Deitzer, vice president, Global Industry – CPG, at Rockwell Automation. “This year’s report underscores the need for CPG manufacturers to prioritize workforce development, as ensuring employees are well-trained and equipped to leverage emerging technologies will be essential in overcoming industry challenges and achieving sustainable growth.”

CPG manufacturers are prioritizing technologies, including smart manufacturing and automation, that enhance and augment the value of their employees to attract, engage and retain their workforce.

“With our extensive industry knowledge and a broad range of industry solutions, Rockwell is uniquely positioned to be a trusted advisor for CPG companies globally,” said Deitzer. “No matter where companies stand in their digital transformation and smart manufacturing efforts, we meet them where they are so they can achieve sustainable growth.”

The full findings of the report can be found here.

Methodology

This report is based on the responses of 158 managers and executives from CPG manufacturers in 17 countries. It’s part of the 9th annual State of Smart Manufacturing report, which surveyed 1,567 manufacturing leaders across multiple industries and was conducted in association with Sapio Research and Rockwell Automation. 

Source

Related Story

New Study Finds GenAI as Top Tech Investment for Manufacturers, While 94% Expect to Maintain or Expand Their Workforce

Rockwell Automation, Inc., one of the world’s largest companies dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, has announced the results of the 9th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report.” The global study surveyed more than 1,500 manufacturers across 17 of the leading manufacturing countries.

This year’s report reveals a focus on harnessing new and emerging technologies to build resiliency, improve quality, maximize workforce potential, and drive sustainable growth.

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • Festo Didactic Showcases Technical Education and Training at Hannover Messe 2025

    Festo Didactic Showcases Technical Education and Training at Hannover Messe 2025

    May 20, 2025 By Krystie Johnston Hannover Messe 2025 was an extra special event for Festo. The Festo Group celebrated their 100th anniversary, Festo Canada celebrated their 50th anniversary, and Festo Didactic celebrated their 60th anniversary. Festo Didactic, the education arm of the company, understands how important education is for empowering individuals, driving economic growth,… Read More…

  • EtherCAT in Boost Mode

    May 14, 2025 EtherCAT and PC-based control in test bench technology EtherCAT is by far the fastest Industrial Ethernet technology. Nevertheless, the data acquisition process at Kraus & Naimer’s cam controller test benches called for an even shorter bus cycle. To achieve the required performance, Beckhoff specialists reduced the previous cycle time from 100 µs… Read More…


Featured Article

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and logistics industries, the need for efficient and flexible material movement solutions has never been greater. Traditional methods like conveyor systems, forklifts, and manual pushcarts have served us well, but they come with limitations.

That’s why Omron is thrilled to announce the launch of their game-changing MD Series of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Read more


Products

  • Electromate to Offer UR7e, UR12e & UR15 Collaborative Robots from Universal Robots

    May 20, 2025 Electromate is expanding its lineup of collaborative automation solutions with the addition of three advanced models from Universal Robots: the UR7e, UR12e, and UR15. These robots provide enhanced options for payload, reach, and precision in demanding collaborative applications. The UR7e delivers a 7 kg payload, 1300 mm reach, and ±0.03 mm repeatability. Positioned between the UR5e and… Read More…

  • Redefining Non-Invasive Temperature Measurement

    May 14, 2025 iTHERM SurfaceLine TM611 provides accuracy and response time comparable to invasive temperature measurement. The non-invasive thermometer iTHERM SurfaceLine TM611 by Endress+Hauser can be used across all industries for a wide range of demanding industrial applications. The surface-mounted thermometer measures process temperature without the risk of leakage and flow disruption. A specially designed… Read More…