71% of F&B suppliers face issues due to outdated processes

Entitled ‘Old Habits, New Challenges: The Critical Need for Modernization in Food and Beverage Supply Chains’, it is based on responses from more than 450 industry suppliers around the world.

The research shows that outdated methods persist throughout the industry, leaving suppliers inadequately prepared for disruption, regulatory changes and demands for more sustainable products.

Meanwhile, as consumer demand for supply chain traceability grows, independent experts such as Bain & Company have discovered that companies with advanced digital tools for visibility have an advantage over their rivals.

TraceGains also found that almost half of all suppliers commonly rely on legacy approaches to manage communications with buyers in the food and beverage industry. This continued reliance on outdated tools hinders their ability to achieve greater efficiency, maintain compliance and meet evolving ESG standards.

Embracing digital solutions is necessary

According to the survey, 48% still use manual spreadsheets to manage day-to-day tasks, while 71% admitted that outdated processes sometimes or often create issues in their work. The biggest issue is time consuming tasks (60%), followed by data entry errors (39%) and miscommunication (32%).

This lack of modernisation among suppliers is partially due to awareness: one in four are unfamiliar with the available technology to better manage customer relationships with F&B brands.

“This new research underscores the urgent need for suppliers to update their operations,”​ said Paul Bradley, senior director for product marketing at TraceGains.

“With increasing regulatory pressures and shifting consumer demands, widely used, outdated methods are putting companies at risk. Embracing digital solutions should no longer solely be seen as a competitive advantage – it’s required for staying ahead and meeting compliance, sustainability, and market demands.”​

To learn more about health and safety within the food and drink manufacturing sector, register now for our exclusive editorial webinar on safeguarding your factory and supply chain.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The session is tailored for health and safety directors who are looking to enhance their strategies, mitigate risks and ensure their supply chains are resilient and compliant.