Success in the packaging industry during the next 10 years will hinge upon building a deep understanding of and connection to the empowered consumer. As consumers place an increasing value on choice, control, convenience and experience, retailers will need to embrace disruptive technologies and novel approaches to manufacturing. One of the biggest transformations in the manufacturing supply chain will be in robotic automation. The demand for integration-ready, flexible machines that can accommodate rapid changeovers, a variety of sizes/SKUs and customized packaging is leading to exciting technologies that break the mold.
The fourth industrial revolution has ushered in a new consumer-driven manufacturing landscape. The consumer is truly king in this new world where companies like Amazon have set a new standard for expectations around choice, control, convenience and experience. According to the World Economic Forum, globally, consumers have access to one billion different products. To keep pace with rising consumer expectations, manufacturers are tapping into new and novel approaches and technologies. Here we examine how dexterous, integration-ready, flexible robotic systems are addressing this monumental shift and paving the way for the factory of the future.