Technology is another driver of innovation that provides advantage to PepsiCo’s supply chain. One of the innovations that PepsiCo is exploring is 3D printing. For example, RUFFLES® Deep Ridged used 3-D printing technology to create optimal potato chip prototypes. We also use the latest in automation technology to enhance plant efficiency and to better meet customer needs more effectively. This is especially helpful with some of our older plants. We’re also following trends in vehicle technology. One area of interest to us is a concept for trucks called platooning where the front driver is in control and two trucks follow behind at a safe distance, like a bike team ‘drafting’ off one another. We see potential with platooning to realize fuel savings. In addition, the emergence of e-commerce as a new distribution channel is another driver that is changing the way we interact with and serve our customers and consumers. We’re building new e-commerce capabilities, looking at how to retool the form and function of products and packaging as well as our supply chain models.
Digitizing the value chain at PepsiCo is about end-to-end integration of our supply chain from a systems and digital perspective, from strategy to execution. There are several different steps we are taking in this area to explore the possibilities. For example, the Internet of Things (IoT) is important at PepsiCo. This is a relatively new term which describes a hyper-connected world where smart technology touches and impacts everything. We are introducing this concept into some of our systems. Mobility and cloud-based applications are big focus areas for PepsiCo as well. The computing power that is now available on tablets and smartphones allow people to do just about anything. Personally, I don’t think that industry as a whole has fully realized or embraced the true potential of mobile. My dream is to help advance mobile technology at PepsiCo so access and use is ubiquitous, from the boardroom to the frontline, and applying the technology in innovative ways that will revolutionize our supply chain and how we do business.