Over the past few years, we’ve been seeing a new wave of technology that is completely changing the way that household products are manufactured.
These exciting changes have improved productivity, simplified production, and shifted consumer expectations when it comes to the products they use every day.
In this article, we’ll be looking at 10 of the biggest trends that are shaping the household products market and how they could affect your business this year.
1. The Use of Robotics and Automation For Efficient Production
Robotic systems and automation are becoming integral components of modern manufacturing facilities in the household products sector. Robotics enhances precision, accelerates production processes, and ensures consistency in quality.
Thanks to this trend, we’ll see an increase in production speed and a significant improvement in precision and consistency as robots can ensure uniform quality with minimal errors.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI has been a transformative force in manufacturing, bringing intelligent automation and data-driven decision-making to the household products sector.
From demand forecasting to quality control, AI applications are enhancing efficiency and driving innovation. Throughout 2024, we are expecting to see AI making demand forecasting a much simpler task, and quality control more consistent as machine learning algorithms can quickly identify defects in real time.
3. 3D Printing Going Mainstream
3D printing, or additive manufacturing, is a technology that we’re starting to see being used across different industries and we see a lot of promise for it in the household products market.
This technology allows for rapid prototyping, efficient production of complex designs, and even customization, which is incredibly important in the fast-moving household products industry where consumer preferences are always changing.
If more companies start to use this technology, we’ll see an improvement in production times as well as increased customization as it will be easier to quickly make products catering to individual consumer needs.
4. Digital Twins
Digital twins involve creating virtual replicas of physical objects or processes that are connected to the internet and collect real-time performance insights.
In the household products industry, digital twins enhance product design, production planning, and predictive maintenance. They can also help to optimize production processes and allow for predictive maintenance that minimizes downtime.
5. Advancements in Materials
Packaging has come a long way in the household product market, from lightweight and durable materials to those with enhanced sustainability profiles, all manufacturers are starting to explore innovative options.
With these new advancements, we’re seeing a new wave of durable products as well as sustainable alternatives like bio-based and recycled materials that align with the growing demand for eco-friendly products.
6. A Focus on Sustainable Manufacturing
A lot of consumers are becoming a lot more conscious about sustainability, particularly when it comes to the products they’re using around their homes.
Customers want to purchase from brands that align with their sustainability goals, which has led to an increase in eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient processes within the industry. Not only are brands being pushed to use sustainable materials, such as biodegradable plastics or recycled content but they are also being expected to implement energy-efficient manufacturing processes.
7. The Servitization of Household Products
An interesting new trend we’re starting to see is the servitization of household products, which means offering solutions beyond the physical product, such as maintenance services or subscriptions.
This is a good thing for brands as it fosters ongoing relationships with customers, creating opportunities for recurring revenue streams and increased brand loyalty. It also increases the lifespan of your products by providing continuous support and upgrades.
8. Navigating The Issues of Global Supply Chains
Ever since the pandemic, companies have been looking at their supply chains differently and reshoring (returning operations to a company’s home country) is gaining traction as a solution to the issues with global supply chains.
This is largely a good thing for the industry, it means that you don’t have to worry about as many supply chain risks, and you can create jobs in your local area which supports the local economy.
9. Using Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
You may think that AR and VR won’t help in manufacturing, but we’re seeing more brands starting to use them for training, maintenance, and design visualization.
AR and VR technologies assist in training new personnel and enable technicians to visualize equipment malfunctions and receive step-by-step guidance for repairs, minimizing downtime.
10. The Digitization of Manufacturing
Finally, the integration of new digital technologies marks a significant shift in the household products market. Smart factories are leveraging technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), data analytics, and real-time monitoring to create a connected and intelligent manufacturing ecosystem.
Within our factories, we now have real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance which optimizes efficiency, minimizes downtime, and guarantees the overall effectiveness of the machines we use to make household products.