Insights from ADM Toronto 2025 - Trends in F&B manufacturing
The first day at ADM Toronto 2025 set the stage for meaningful discussions around where the food and beverage manufacturing industry is heading. The session offered a grounded view of what truly matters to producers, suppliers, and innovators today.
1. Productivity remains a core focus
While artificial intelligence continues to dominate global conversations, in the world of food and beverage manufacturing, productivity still leads the way. The focus is on how to make processes faster, more consistent, and more efficient.
For small and medium-sized businesses, where the investment in full automation may not yet be feasible, semi-automation presents a practical solution. Identifying the areas where automation can bring the highest return — whether in packaging, filling, or inspection — can meaningfully raise productivity without overextending resources.
2. Sustainability — everyone wants it, but it’s a long road ahead
The drive for sustainable materials continues to grow, supported by consumer demand and brand responsibility. Yet implementation remains complex. Beyond selecting green materials, true sustainability requires rethinking machines, processes, and the entire production flow to make them compatible with these new materials.
There’s also the consumer experience factor: a sustainable package must not only reduce environmental impact but also appeal visually and functionally. A new concept needs to attract attention and invite trial.
The ambition is clear: both consumers and manufacturers want sustainability. The journey, however, isn't that easy — but every year brings better materials, more adaptable machinery, and more refined design approaches.
3. A simple reminder over lunch
During lunch at the exhibition, conversations naturally returned to packaging — even while enjoying a sandwich. It was a small but telling reminder of how packaging continues to shape the eating experience. While the catering team did a wonderful job, it was also clear that everyday packaging, even something as simple as a sandwich wrap, still holds opportunities for innovation and improvement.
♨️ In summary:
The industry isn’t reinventing the wheel — it’s evolving it. The future of food and beverage manufacturing will depend on how quickly we can align productivity, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making. Each small improvement brings us closer to a more efficient and sustainable ecosystem.