Getting Out of the Gate Fast ROUNDTABLE TAKEAWAYS
Food and beverage executives discussed widespread industry challenges , solutions , and insights to get out of the gate fast as we emerge from the pandemic .
CHALLENGE
Recruiting and retaining employees has been one of the greatest challenges for food and beverage companies across the country due to employee burnout and need for personal time .
SOLUTION
Many companies have relied on temporary labor and migrant worker programs to help fulfill demand with a limited work force .
Insights
P Employees have responded well to incentives such as bonuses for arriving on time , meeting production goals , and employment anniversaries .
P Many companies are at the early stages of automation implementation , which is a primary focus to increase efficiency and safety .
CHALLENGE
Many processes are manual in food and beverage facilities making it difficult to run efficient operations when labor is reduced .
CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS
SOLUTION
Automation is being integrated into facilities to reduce the need for additional labor and to allow employees to take on responsibilities in other areas of the business .
P Technology , including Zoom and Microsoft ® Teams , has been integral in staying connected over the past year and has allowed employees to have work-life balance .
P Although technology has been a positive force , most executives are looking forward to everyone reuniting in person to learn from one another and keep the culture alive .