The 2022 International Production & Processing Expo promised the usual: technology, equipment, supplies, and services galore, all revolving around egg, meat, and poultry processing. Boasting on its website that IPPE is “the world’s largest annual poultry, meat and feed industry event of its kind,” the annual show at the Georgia World Congress Center felt like something more this time around. 

It felt… dare I say… more “normal” than we’d expected. Few masks were worn, handshakes were freely offered, and local eateries were crowded (though, most restaurants visibly struggled to provide services). Ditto hotels. The chatter among processors and suppliers was predictable: automation desperation coupled with supply chain frustration. These issues are constraining an industry that otherwise could be thriving.  

Trade shows are always an interesting gauge of the industry’s health. It’s clear from IPPE that the meat and poultry business is very much alive, though it needs to regain some lost energy. The supply chain should improve over time, but businesses are going to have to be strategic to manage labor losses. Improving inefficiencies in operations by streamlining processes, adding automation where appropriate, and improving facility layouts can help. These efforts, while not a panacea for all pandemic-triggered woes, will move us closer to normal more quickly. 

If you need assistance getting more out of your operation,connect with us here.

“Please keep your seat belt fastened in case we experience unexpected rough air.” Anyone who travels by plane is accustomed to this announcement.

Heading into the International Poultry & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, I expected to hear similar proclamations from attendees. It’s time to buckle up; the food industry is headed for a rough ride. Avian flu has been painful, and the price of eggs is high. Feed costs are soaring. Labor is non-existent, and the supply chain is still in disarray. Overall, the economic outlook is murky. Yes, a little hesitancy about the future would be understandable.

Yet, among the processors and suppliers visiting with us, it was full speed ahead because product demand is still growing. Food must be produced, and processors are stretched to meet demand, making plans to expand, renovate and build. Pragmatic attitudes seem to be prevailing. Maybe we can ease up on that buckle a bit.

Should we be worried at all? What does the food industry radar indicate? Are there storms in our path we just aren’t seeing? Or are we, by expanding and improving efficiency now, buckling up and getting ready for the future?

Our instinct leans toward the latter.