How pet food manufacturers can succeed in an unstable market

Recent events have helped trigger a 12% rise in pet ownership since 2019, increasing the demand for pet food. However, shipping delays and material shortages have continued to challenge the global food market throughout 2022. These problems show no sign of slowing in the new year. So, how can pet food manufacturers adapt to maintain their competitive edge in such a volatile market?

By the by

Delays to shipments which bring both livestock and animal feed to UK shores have created challenges for suppliers to produce more with less. It means alternative solutions must be found and tapping into animal by-product waste streams can offer a quick win. It makes valuable use of materials otherwise deemed as waste when by-products are proven to be highly nutritious, meaning a more sustainable change doesn’t mean a sacrifice of dietary quality and that extra emphasis on sustainability can make all the difference.

Smaller footprint, bigger profit

Consumers are increasingly aware of their food – where it comes from and what it’s made of. In a country where 62% of households own pets, the same view applies to pet food. Figures revealed to the Guardian highlight this surge in demand for sustainable pet food, with seafood-based products up 57%. However, considering supply chain issues, manufacturers may have to look at alternative ways of upping their sustainability.

Therefore, packaging can be a visual way to showcase a commitment to sustainability. Not only can the right product design minimise plastic usage, increasing the circularity of materials used can also cut production costs. This comes through machine-efficient speeds, less human involvement (meaning fewer health and safety issues) and a reduction in waste.

It’s also worth considering your options. Where 100% recyclable packaging isn’t ideal for a specific product, investing in hybrid packaging automation, that combines sustainable materials with those necessary for ensuring product integrity can be a viable option.

Automation

Research conducted by the British Automation & Robot Association (BARA) undertook last year saw the UK’s food and drink sector listed as the second highest purchaser of automation as businesses look to modernise their processes with an eye on productivity and sustainability.

The research also added that the price of automation is falling. Prices are expected to be 76% lower in 2025 than in 2010. This has been brought on in part by a rise in supplier choice and the maturation of robotics. Now there are both more suppliers to choose from and greater options for what tasks the automation can do.

The competitiveness of the market reflects the value automation adds to a business as businesses clamber to boost their efficiency, cut costs and reduce waste.

Consultation salvation

Yet, as the field gets more diverse and competitive, it can be difficult to know which option is best. That’s why consultation can be vital. When costs across the supply chain are rising, process evaluation can be invaluable in saving money without compromising on production. It can help in the balancing act of rising costs and Ambrey Baker’s 30+ years of industry experience makes it well-placed to identify affordable and impactful changes. It also knows how to install automation in live environments, so there is minimum disruption to operations.

While a business is busy executing its day-to-day, Ambrey Baker is keeping abreast with industry trends and technological advancements. That expertise can be brought into pet food factories. To help modernise operations so that even in tricky times, businesses can operate with certainty.

For more information about how Ambrey Baker can help your factory, head over to the company page or follow us on LinkedIn.