IPPMI: Omron pushes for automation to unlock India's USD 100-billion packaging potential

Harshal Shendurnikar, industry manager at Omron Automation India, revealed startling insights about India's packaging potential. "While Belgium consumes 52kg of packaged food per capita, India stands at just 1kg," Shendurnikar noted. This disparity represents what Shendurnikar calls "a USD 100-billion opportunity waiting to be unlocked by 2030."

Shendurnikar outlined how Omron's integrated automation solutions are already transforming operations for major manufacturers. "Our systems aren't just about replacing manual processes - they're creating fundamentally more efficient and sustainable production ecosystems," he explained. At Nestle facilities, Omron's perfect sealing technology maintains precision quality control at speeds of 200 packages per minute while reducing material waste.

The company's comprehensive approach addresses multiple industry pain points simultaneously. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are solving acute labour shortages while improving workplace safety - L’Oreal reportedly saw 30% fewer accidents after implementation. AI-powered vision systems provide real-time quality inspection, catching defects that might otherwise lead to costly recalls. "It's about building resilience across the entire production chain," Shendurnikar emphasised.

Sustainability forms a core pillar of Omron's value proposition. As environmental regulations tighten globally, their systems help manufacturers adapt packaging materials without sacrificing performance. "We're seeing particularly strong demand for solutions that maintain barrier properties while incorporating more recycled content," Shendurnikar noted, adding that these technologies are helping Indian exporters meet stringent international standards.

To accelerate adoption, Omron will open a state-of-the-art automation centre in Bengaluru this September. The facility will provide local manufacturers with complimentary access to advanced R&D resources - a move Shendurnikar says could save partners up to USD 60,000 in development costs while slashing time-to-market by six to 12 months. "This represents our commitment to not just sell equipment, but to actively partner in India's packaging modernisation journey," he stated.

With USD 2.5-billion annually invested in research and development underpinned by 9,000 active patents, Omron brings formidable technological firepower to this transformation. As ready-to-eat food categories expand and sustainability requirements intensify, Shendurnikar believes smart automation will be the differentiator separating industry leaders from laggards. "The companies that embrace these solutions today," he concluded, "will be best positioned to capture the enormous growth potential ahead."