Growth in regional demand for automation and software

The Southeast Asia and Australia and New Zealand automation and software solutions market for the food and beverage industry is poised for huge expansion in the coming years, with the growth rate pegged at 10-15%, according to a report by Frost and Sullivan.

Entitled Southeast Asia and Australia and New Zealand Automation and Software Solutions Market in the Food and Beverage Industry, finds that the market earned revenues of over $72.1 million in 2008, and estimates this to reach $107.0 million by 2015.

This is due to a fast-paced evolution as consumer preferences change, and there is a demand for high-quality products that promote health.

Ample foreign direct investment (FDI) is also driving growth in this space.

Food and beverage investors are continuing to target Southeast Asian countries, Australia and New Zealand due to their growing status as hubs for production and export.

Soaring energy prices have also led to a spike in food prices.

As automation and software solutions enable optimal energy utilization, manufacturers are deploying them to reduce the cost of end products.

Due to the high degree of competition in this arena, participants are going the extra mile to maintain quality and consistency in production.