Increase Operational Productivity with Advanced Use of Automation in Food and Beverage Industry
By Bill Remy
October 30, 2024
Food and beverage plants are constantly chasing improved productivity and efficiency, and Bill Remy, CEO for TBM Consulting, joins the Food For Thought podcast to discuss strategies to help them reach those goals.
Bill also reminds processors of the importance of getting skilled workers on board to maintain the equipment at a high level, despite the complexity of the automation being installed, and figuring out a way to transfer the tribal knowledge from longtime workers who leave to the new generation of employees.
Listen to the Podcast below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does advanced automation improve operational productivity in manufacturing?
Advanced automation improves operational productivity by increasing consistency, speed, and reliability in critical processes. The video explains that when automation is applied to stable, well‑understood operations, it reduces manual variation and frees people to focus on higher‑value problem‑solving. This allows manufacturers to increase output and efficiency without proportionally increasing labor or operating cost.
Why doesn’t automation always deliver the productivity gains manufacturers expect?
Automation fails to deliver expected gains when it is layered on top of unstable or poorly managed processes. The video emphasizes that automating inefficiency only makes problems happen faster. Without clear standards, disciplined execution, and strong management systems, automation increases complexity and frustration instead of improving productivity.
What is required to successfully use advanced automation to boost productivity?
Successful use of advanced automation requires operational discipline first. The video highlights stabilizing processes, clarifying decision‑making, and embedding automation into daily management routines. When leaders actively manage performance using automated systems—and teams trust the data—automation becomes a force multiplier that drives sustainable productivity improvement rather than a standalone technology investment.
Bill Remy is the CEO of TBM Consulting Group and serves on the TBM Board of Directors. His career expertise includes deep knowledge of operational performance improvement, site transitions, acquisition integration, new product development and supply chain management.
