Eric Permanyer

Industrial digitalization (Industry 4.0), has had a major impact on various sectors, including the food sector. The landscape of the evolution of digitalization in the food sector in Spain has undergone significant changes in recent years, marking a transition towards the adoption of digital technologies at all stages of the value chain. The current trends in the sector are to make use of more advanced technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), data analysis and integrated management systems. Companies are adopting the integration of digital solutions within their processes to improve traceability, quality and efficiency in the production, distribution and marketing of food. Digitalization in the food industry has revolutionized the way food is produced, distributed and consumed. What technology is key in the digital transformation of the food sector and what are the benefits? MES system: Thanks to the automation of processes in factories and the use of production management systems (MES), food companies can monitor and optimize production processes in real time, increasing the efficiency of their processes and reducing waste of resources. ✅ Benefit: This translates into higher productivity and profitability for manufacturers, while contributing to more sustainable and environmentally friendly production. Quality management systems (QMS) and traceability: The implementation of these systems is essential to ensure safety and customer satisfaction. By digitizing records, it is possible to trace each stage of the production process, ensuring transparency and providing confidence to consumers. In addition, these systems enable rapid identification of any possible contamination or incident, facilitating immediate corrective action. ✅ Benefit: Visibility and traceability. Being able to make corrections in real time gives us the ability to respond to any problem. In addition to facilitating compliance with regulations and quality standards, ensuring safety and compliance with government regulations. WMS and APS: Using inventory management software (WMS) and production planning software (APS) helps maintain optimal control of resources and enables faster adaptation to market demands. In addition, the integration of technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) makes it easier to track products, from raw materials to delivery to the end customer. ✅ Benefit: Having greater control will help us produce more efficiently. Proactive maintenance: Asset management and predictive maintenance, which helps to implement strategies to anticipate possible failures in machinery and equipment. ✅ Benefit: Reduce unplanned downtime. Energy efficiency software: Real-time monitoring can help identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency in production. ✅ Benefit: Become more sustainable by reducing waste by optimizing production processes and improving inventory management. Challenges and barriers for the sector Although there are notable advances, we find that there are challenges in terms of the initial investment required and resistance to change in some companies. In addition, cyber security and systems integration are becoming a common concern in the digitalization of the sector. Digitalization of the sector is a key part of any strategic plan for the food sector, because they will achieve: Produce more efficiently. Improve the supply chain. Improved customer satisfaction. Adopting new technologies and industry approaches will enable food companies to remain competitive in a constantly evolving market. Digital transformation is therefore expected to be a priority. Strategies for the digitalization of the food sector Having an implementation strategy tailored to the reality of each company often means success or failure in this kind of transformation. One of the first recommended actions for companies starting their digital transformation is to identify the level of digital maturity at the outset. That is to say, to evaluate both technically and operationally, the state of existing machines, production processes and the use of existing technology. This exercise makes it possible to detect the priority points for improvement that can be addressed with digitization and to draw up a digital transformation roadmap consistent with the factory situation and digitization standards. Having the right technology partner plays an increasingly crucial role. At Geprom, part of Telefónica Tech, we are specialists in the approach, development and implementation of IT-OT strategies and solutions of value for all layers of the company. We work with data as the main driver, from the automated generation of information, through connectivity and security, to the digital management of the factory to accompany the manufacturing company on its way to Industry 4.0. SUCCESS STORY: BODEGAS BORSAO Bodegas Borsao is an example of digitalization in the food industry. In this case, they implemented a WMS (Warehouse Management System) to enhance the management of their raw materials warehouse and finished products, as well as a MES (Manufacturing Execution System) to optimize production. Automation of workflows and system integration has allowed them to simplify their processes, save time, and streamline daily tasks. Furthermore, it has provided them with a comprehensive view of their production processes, facilitating decision-making. Thanks to these advancements, Bodegas Borsao has increased control over its operations, focusing on product quality. Discover this success story → Connectivity & IoT IA & Data The digitalization of the industry: a practical guide October 4, 2023