ABI Research has evaluated the impact politics, regulation, the economy, supply chain, ESG and technology are having on manufacturers of FMCG, pharmaceuticals, producers of steel, chemicals, pulp and paper, as well as the mining and oil & gas sectors.
“Our assessment found that the FMCG sector is under pressure from all sides,” says Michael Larner, Industrial & Manufacturing Research Director, ABI Research. “Securing raw materials is challenging considering lockdowns in China and limited grain supplies from Ukraine. Supply shocks are raising input costs, and operating costs are rising with higher energy costs coupled with the pressure to pay higher wages and work sustainably. We all hoped that with the rollout of COVID vaccines, the world would return to ‘normal’. However, events have taken a different turn, with the effects felt far and wide. Political decisions and regulations have the most impact on these companies’ operations. After all, governments can lock down cities and restrict transportation. At the same time, production can stop due to product recalls, as currently witnessed with Abbot Laboratories’ baby formula facility in the United States.”
Each industry is at very different stages concerning its digital maturity. Steel, pharma and paper producers have more work to do to connect their operations digitally and utilise some of the cutting-edge technologies. Meanwhile, FMCG companies, such as Procter & Gamble, are working toward aligning IT and OT teams.
Manufacturers can no longer postpone investments in digital technologies. “Technology is part of the solution to alleviate the pressures. For example, data analytics can help companies understand the potential impacts of supply chain issues and optimise production to retain price points. Also, software can help companies engage in the circular economy and incorporate recycled materials in their products, as seen in the paper and packaging industries. Digital technologies are part of the solution,” Larner concludes.
These findings are from ABI Research’s Digital Transformation in Process Manufacturing and Extractive Industries report.
