process, demonstrate a good ROI and build from there. “AI is an exciting, transformative opportunity. But it’s vital to treat it as just one of the tools needed to achieve individual objectives, rather than as a solution for all outcomes,” said Keith.
On the factory floor the biggest strength of AI must surely lie in its ability to efficiently process and analyse huge volumes of data and every piece of equipment on the factory floor represents a potential goldmine of data – ranging from performance output and power consumption to operating temperature. AI can accurately monitor and interpret this data, identifying anomalies, patterns or predictive factors that only a very experienced human technician would see. It is important, therefore that any AI journey in the production environment starts by ensuring access to the right data, by acquiring detailed, accurate and diverse data that the AI system can learn from. An important first step is to invest in smart sensors and data acquisition systems to help capture the best data to feed into the AI system. There also needs to be a change in mindsets right across organisations, to embrace these new tools and harmonising them into daily work and processes.
A talking point
In 2025 AI looks to be getting even harder to ignore and it is expected to be a big talking point at the ProSweets Cologne 2025 exhibition too. From 2 to 5 February 2025, exhibitors will demonstrate their equipment and technology know-how for the sweets and snacks industry, with many presenting AI tools that offer a host of opportunities for increased efficiency. The conference programme running alongside the event will also heavily feature discussions on AI, giving visitors an opportunity to hear about solutions and innovative approaches for the implementation of AI in production and the supply chain
Conclusion
One of our most exciting Generative AI projects is a new proprietary tool that is being used as part of the end-to-end product innovation process. The technology is anchored to consumer insights and plays a crucial role at the front-end of the process.”
KennedysConfection.com
Despite the proven benefits of AI, for many hesitations remain. However, much like in the early days of the Internet, delaying AI adoption poses significant risks and companies that wait too long could find themselves at a disadvantage. Their competitors are likely to be starting to use AI to help reduce production and supply chain costs which will put them in a better position to respond to market shifts more rapidly. With margins already thin in the confectionery sector, the cost of inaction is high – a loss of competitiveness, shrinking market share, and missed innovation opportunities.
Kennedy’s Confection December/January 2024/25 47
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