Snack and bakery producers face many challenges as they strive to staff their facilities, especially when it comes to operating packaging equipment. Finding and retaining skilled workers is a challenge as there is a learning curve associated with running complex packaging equipment. However, new smart packaging systems are available to help overcome these challenges. Robotics plays a significant role in these innovations.
As snack and bakery producers grapple with the challenge of hiring and retaining machine technicians, there have been notable shifts within packaging operations. With fewer skilled workers available, companies are requesting more solutions in machinery aimed at bridging this skills gap, according to Jorge Izquierdo, vice president of market development at PMMI. “This has led many companies to move away from training internal staff to service their machinery. Instead, they rely on machine builders to handle maintenance.”