foodpro poll reveals top priorities for manufacturers

A poll run by foodpro has found that, with the food industry resuming pre-pandemic conditions, over 60% of businesses are looking to make capital expenditure investments in areas such as equipment and technology over the next 12 months.

The poll also indicated that 37% of respondents are looking to invest in processing and packaging, 15% in ingredients and food additives, and 13% in food science and technology.

According to Felicity Parker, foodpro Event and Product Manager, the FMCG industry experienced growth from 2020–2023. The biggest challenge for the industry during this pandemic period was capacity and supply.

In Australia, empty market shelves were a result of sea freight disruption and panic-buying behaviour. With less disruption now, supply is catching up with demand, allowing manufacturers to look towards investing.

Almost half of foodpro buyers said they were still at the information-gathering stage of investment, with 84% saying they would be attending the event with the objective of sourcing new products and services.

Having last run in 2017, foodpro 2023 will be held from 23–26 July at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“With a focus on efficiency and sustainability at this year’s event, there are a host of new educational and experiential features alongside an extensive mix of exhibiting suppliers,” Parker said.

“Food and beverage processing is Australia’s largest manufacturing industry and is vitally important for our manufacturing future. Face-to-face interaction is the foundation of building strong relationships, and in-person events create the necessary push for business to happen and have significant ROI implications. We are looking forward to yet another hugely successful event.”

For further details about foodpro, visit https://foodproexh.com.