PMMI Recognizes 10 CPG Innovators Shaping the Future

PMMI Honors 10 Next-Generation CPG Innovators Transforming Manufacturing and Packaging in Southeast Asia \\[n]In a rapidly evolving landscape, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (PMMI) has recognized 10 emerging leaders who are driving significant advancements in automation, productivity, sustainability, and packaging. These innovators, honored with the inaugural CPG NexGen Awards, are not just preparing for the future; they are actively shaping it. \\[n]### Driving Change in Automation and Productivity \\[n]One of the key areas where these innovators are making a mark is in automation. For example, Allie Helton, Director of Operations at Wyandot Snacks, led an automation project that tripled weekly production capacity to over 1 million pounds, achieving 98% uptime. This level of efficiency can be a game-changer for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, where increasing production capacity while maintaining high uptime is crucial. Similarly, Hayden Bivens, a Packaging Engineer at PepsiCo, is modernizing a weight-verification system across 1,400+ machines and 34 facilities, resulting in an estimated $800,000 in annual productivity savings. Such innovations can significantly reduce operational costs and improve quality control in ASEAN factories. \\[n]### Advancing Sustainability and Cost Savings \\[n]Sustainability is another critical focus area. Raianna O'Toole, Global Packaging Innovation Lead at Kenvue, is advancing sustainable refill systems and innovative packaging across multiple consumer categories. In a region like Southeast Asia, where environmental concerns are increasingly important, such initiatives can help factories meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations. Additionally, Supradeep Vankayala, Lead Design Engineer at R&D, Becton Dickinson, developed a PFAS-free, recyclable, and sterilizable packaging solution, preventing the rejection of approximately 2 million products. This kind of innovation can help ASEAN manufacturers reduce waste and improve their environmental footprint. \\[n]### Leveraging AI and Digital Solutions \\[n]The use of AI and digital solutions is also a significant trend among these innovators. Ann-Marie Willis, Senior Engineer at NPD Operations, Mary Kay Global, created an AI-powered tool that contributed to more than $1.4 million in documented cost avoidance. Factories in ASEAN countries can benefit from similar AI-driven tools to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance decision-making. Matt J. Fitzpatrick, Packaging Engineering Manager at Saint-Gobain, advanced digital packaging systems supporting sustainability, carbon tracking, and regulatory reporting. These systems can help ASEAN factories comply with local and international regulations and track their environmental impact. \\[n]### Conclusion: Embracing Innovation for the Future \\[n]The recognition of these 10 CPG NexGen Award winners underscores the importance of innovation in the manufacturing and packaging industry. For ASEAN factories, adopting these cutting-edge technologies and practices can lead to significant improvements in efficiency, sustainability, and cost savings. As the industry continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve by embracing these innovations will be crucial for long-term success. \\[n]To learn more about the CPG NexGen Award winners and register for PACK EXPO International 2026, visit [packexpointernational.com](http://packexpointernational.com).