Food and beverage manufacturers are facing data, technology and workforce challenges as they seek to scale artificial intelligence (AI) across their operations, according to new research from Rockwell Automation.
The company’s 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report found that nearly 90% of food and beverage manufacturers are already using AI and machine learning or plan to adopt the technologies in the near future. However, manufacturers reported effectively using only about 45% of the data they collect, potentially limiting the impact of their AI investments.
Rockwell Automation said manufacturers need stronger connections between operational and business systems, improved data accessibility and clearer links between AI initiatives and business objectives to move beyond isolated pilot projects.
“Many manufacturers have moved beyond asking whether AI can deliver value,” said Greg Schmidt, vice president of CPG Global Industry at Rockwell Automation.
“The focus now is on how to scale successful pilots across the enterprise. That requires more than new technology. It requires connected data, integrated operations and a clear link between AI initiatives and business outcomes,” Schmidt said.
The analysis identified quality improvement, increased productivity, cost reduction and operational risk management as key objectives for manufacturers implementing AI. It also highlighted the importance of integrating information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) systems to provide access to connected, contextualised data.
According to the report, industry respondents expect AI-supported manufacturing processes to increase from approximately 37% currently to more than 60% by 2030.
Workforce readiness was another factor identified in the research. Rockwell Automation reported that 93% of manufacturers expect smart manufacturing initiatives to reshape their workforce, while 40% said they had reskilled employees during the past year.
The company said manufacturers that align people, processes and technology may be better positioned to expand AI initiatives and sustain business outcomes.
The findings are drawn from Rockwell Automation’s 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report and its analysis, From AI Pilots to Enterprise Impact: How Food and Beverage Manufacturers Can Scale AI for Measurable Business Outcomes.
