#India #Smart Manufacturing #ACG Packaging #Global Lighthouse Network #Shirwal

ACG Packaging Materials Joins the Global Lighthouse Network

In a groundbreaking achievement, ACG Packaging Materials has officially joined the World Economic Forum's (WEF) Global Lighthouse Network, marking a historic moment as the very first global pharmaceutical packaging company to earn this prestigious distinction. This recognition reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to innovation in the realm of smart manufacturing, aimed at enhancing the safety, sustainability, and affordability of medicines worldwide.

A New Milestone for ACG

The celebrated designation centers on ACG's Shirwal facility, which has undergone a comprehensive transformation employing advanced technologies including generative AI, machine learning, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This transformation journey is not isolated, as it follows ACG’s previous recognition for its Pithampur capsules manufacturing facility in 2023, reinforcing the company's leadership in the sector.

Karan Singh, Managing Director of ACG, articulated that true leadership in packaging must prioritize smart solutions, rather than merely competitive practices. He highlighted the Shirwal facility's successful implementation of advanced technologies, stating that it is a vital step alongside their ongoing commitment to build smarter and more efficient manufacturing processes.

Key Innovations and Achievements

The transformation at the Shirwal facility covers end-to-end manufacturing operations, leading to some remarkable reductions and improvements:

• - 40% reduction in lead times
• - 71% reduction in defects
• - 31% reduction in energy consumption
• - 34% improvement in on-time delivery

These impressive metrics are not just numbers; they represent a significant enhancement in the overall operational efficiency of the facility. For customers, these changes translate into quicker turnaround times, higher quality products, and a much more reliable delivery performance.

S R Shivshankar, CEO of ACG Packaging Materials, emphasized the collective effort of the teams at Shirwal in integrating these digital technologies into everyday manufacturing routines, which strengthens ACG's commitment to quality and sustainability. Meanwhile, Balajikasiram Sundararajan, Chief Digital Officer, shared insights about the 'Build the Future' program, which is advancing technology-driven transformations throughout ACG’s manufacturing chain, enabling new business models and connected services.

Global Implications of the Recognition

The significance of the Global Lighthouse Network goes beyond mere accolades. It represents a collective affirmation from the WEF—a platform that acknowledges companies at the forefront of production and operational excellence, sustainability, and talent engagement. Kiva Allgood, Head of the Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chains at the World Economic Forum, articulated that today’s competitiveness hinges not solely on efficiency but rather on the ability to quickly adapt and respond to market changes.

The commitment demonstrated by ACG not only contributes to enhancing operational resilience but also aligns with global movements towards sustainable manufacturing practices that are responsible and resilient.

ACG’s Vision for the Future

For over 60 years, ACG has made significant strides in delivering innovative production solutions tailored for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors. As the world’s most integrated provider of oral dosage products, ACG continuously endeavors to forge long-lasting partnerships across 138 countries, working collaboratively to tackle the world's pressing health challenges.

With this latest recognition, ACG stands poised to further its mission under the 'Make it Better' commitment, echoing its promise to replicate excellence across all facilities while championing the cause of sustainable manufacturing.

In summary, ACG Packaging Materials’ integration into the Global Lighthouse Network is not just a hallmark of its advanced operations but also a promise of a future where medicines are produced sustainably, efficiently, and more affordably, benefitting communities worldwide.