In this year’s report, we have identified five pivotal trends in the Food & Beverage Industry in the UK and Ireland.
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- Changing consumer demands are the biggest external pressure:
While some concerns are universal, our research uncovered significant differences between business priorities based on company size. Ensuring rapid access to accurate data is key to keeping up with both consumers and compliance in 2025 and beyond.
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- Gaining rapid access to data is the biggest internal focus area:
Many companies are struggling to capture, manage and report critical information. 51% of companies plan to invest in OEE software in the next 12-24 months to improve operational efficiency.
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- Digital transformation is ready for a reboot—and cloud migration will drive it:
Aptean’s study found a significant increase in the number of companies that are in the process of moving to cloud ERP software compared to 12 months ago. Processors (72%) are more likely to be moving to the cloud than manufacturers (41%).
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- Investment in industry-specific software is driving revenue growth:
Less than half of companies are currently using industry-specific software, but those who have deployed it are more likely to generate higher revenue.
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- Exploration and application of artificial intelligence (AI) is surging:
More than half (54%) of UK and Ireland food and beverage companies are in the process of implementing AI and a quarter (28%) are already using AI, compared to just 6% at the end of 2023.
