DOMINO Printing Sciences has collaborated with the Advanced Services Group (ASG) to produce a new whitepaper exploring the evolving role of suppliers in supporting fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturers amid mounting industry challenges. This research, drawing on insights from FMCG businesses and experts across multiple sectors and regions, sheds light on how suppliers can better assist manufacturers in navigating an increasingly unpredictable and demanding landscape.
At the core of the study is the recognition that as FMCG manufacturers confront persistent issues such as labour shortages, sustainability demands, and a pressing need for enhanced digital capabilities, the traditional supplier role must undergo a transformation. Rather than simply providing products, suppliers are now urged to become agile, customer-centric partners delivering integrated, service-driven solutions that bolster long-term operational performance. Dr Kawal Kapoor, lead researcher at ASG, highlighted that the evolution towards the “factory of the future” is well underway, and this research offers a grounded perspective on shifting customer expectations and the strategic opportunities that lie ahead.
Key themes emerging from the study include the increasing importance of flexibility and adaptability in supplier relationships. The traditional product-centric model is giving way to outcome-based solutions prioritising uptime, reliability, and peace of mind. This reflects a broader industry trend towards service-led models, where the success of supplier partnerships is measured by their ability to drive operational excellence rather than merely supplying equipment or materials.
Kate Rattigan, senior product manager for advanced services at Domino, reinforced the importance of this shift, stating that understanding evolving customer needs is crucial for designing and delivering “future-ready solutions” that address real-world challenges. Domino’s work with ASG is directly informing their new service developments, ensuring that the needs of FMCG manufacturers—who must innovate and adapt quickly—are front and centre.
Domino’s broader strategic efforts align with these findings, as exemplified by their investments in capabilities supporting digital and sustainable manufacturing transitions. Their Digital Solutions Programme aids label and packaging manufacturers in optimising workflow and maximising digital printing investments, a critical area given the growing demand for flexible, traceable, and regulatory-compliant packaging. For example, packaging trends such as labelless PET bottles are driving the need for innovative coding and marking, including the application of digital printing on bottle closures—important for recycling instructions and product traceability.
Additionally, Domino’s establishment of the Print and Apply Knowledge Center in Malmö, Sweden, further supports their commitment to providing comprehensive service solutions. This facility offers tailored product testing, training, and education to address individual customer needs, enhancing the reliability and performance of print and apply technologies crucial in modern packaging operations.
Collectively, these initiatives reflect a supplier ecosystem increasingly focused on delivering not only products but also expertise, education, and outcome-oriented services that enable FMCG manufacturers to meet complex industry pressures head-on. As environmental concerns and labour market dynamics continue to challenge manufacturers, the ability of suppliers to act as responsive, collaborative partners may prove critical for sustained success.
In summary, the partnership between Domino and ASG underscores a pivotal shift in the FMCG supply landscape—highlighting the necessity for suppliers to evolve rapidly and to prioritise integrated, service-based approaches that align with manufacturers’ future-facing operational needs. This evolution is key to unlocking new efficiencies, resilience, and sustainability in FMCG production in the decade ahead.
Source: Noah Wire Services
