Outlook 2024: Product inspection market in Southeast Asia

Could you share with us the overall experience of Mettler-Toledo in the Southeast Asian product inspection market in the past year? Were there any notable high points?

2023 was a great year for Mettler-Toledo in Southeast Asia, marked by some key milestones. A standout achievement was the software upgrade for our M30 R-Series metal detection systems and the launch of our X2 Series of x-ray inspection systems.

The M30 R-Series, equipped with the revolutionary SENSE™ software update, brought practical improvements to our metal detection systems. This software not only enhances metal detection security and performance but also addresses multiple food safety regulations globally. What sets it apart is its future-proof benefits, seamlessly integrating with ProdX™ data management software. This integration streamlines processes, automates reporting, and enables real-time data collection, providing manufacturers with full visibility and transparency of the product journey.

Equipped with SENSE™ software, the M30 R-Series metal detection system boasts improved performance

On the other front, the X2 Series of high-performing x-ray inspection systems made a significant impact on product safety. Designed for accessibility at an incredible price point, the X2 Series empowers food manufacturers with durable software and outstanding reliability. Its intelligent design not only enhances brand protection and product safety but also contributes to meeting food safety compliance requirements while boosting overall productivity.

Equipped with the state-of-the-art ContamPlus™ software, the X2 Series scans products for a comprehensive range of contaminants, going beyond the initial automatic product set-up. By detecting some of the most hard-to-find foreign bodies, the X2 Series minimises production waste and protects productivity. Its innovative technology, inspecting contaminants such as glass, metal, mineral stone, calcified bone, dense plastic and rubber compounds, means both in-line and end-of-line inspections deliver optimum performance and output.

The X2 Series x-ray inspection system detects hard-to-find foreign bodies, minimising waste 

Looking ahead, what do you foresee as the driving factors for growth in the product inspection machinery sector in 2024?

In 2024, the product inspection machinery sector is poised for substantial growth, primarily driven by the ever-increasing trend towards automation in the food manufacturing industry. Both global players and local SMEs are seeking solutions that offer consistent quality, improved productivity and cost savings. Manufacturers are now looking for cost-effective machines that are compact, easy to operate, scalable and equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) capabilities.

In response to these market drivers, how does Mettler-Toledo plan to position itself in 2024 and beyond?

Recognising the industry's shift towards automation, consistent quality and cost-effectiveness, our future 2024 plans revolve around offering a holistic solution to our clients. Our product portfolio will not only continue to but will extend seamlessly into automation integration and comprehensive service support.

We aim to provide our clients with more than just cutting-edge product inspection technology. Our focus is on delivering a complete package, so that from the initial stages of product inspection to the integration of automation processes and ongoing support, Mettler-Toledo is a partner for the entire lifecycle of our clients' systems. By maintaining this commitment, we believe we can not only meet but exceed the expectations of manufacturers, both global players and SMEs, in Southeast Asia.

Over the past year, have you observed any specific types of inspection machines gaining popularity among the region's typical SMEs in the food and beverage industry?

Absolutely, especially among SMEs in the food and beverage sector in Southeast Asia. The emphasis on food safety has led to increased investments in metal detection and x-ray inspection systems. For example, among our own solutions, the M30 R-Series metal detection system with its SENSE™ software has found resonance among SMEs due to its affordability and the added benefit of future-proof integration with ProdX™ data management software.

Similarly, the X2 Series has witnessed a surge in adoption. This advanced x-ray inspection systems within the Series offer cutting-edge technology to help detect contaminants and comply with stringent food safety standards. SMEs in the region are seeing the benefits of the X2 Series of x-ray inspection systems for their accuracy, efficiency and the peace of mind it brings regarding completing multiple quality assurance checks in real-time during production.

For SMEs looking to automate filling and packing processes, our checkweighing machines have become increasingly popular. These machines not only ensure accuracy in the weighing process but also contribute to the overall efficiency of production lines. The demand for cost-effective yet robust solutions is driving SMEs to adopt our innovative technology, aligning with our commitment to providing scalable, easy-to-operate and IoT-enabled solutions.

Looking into the future, what technological innovations can food and beverage manufacturers expect from Mettler-Toledo in the coming months?

In the coming months, food and beverage (F&B) manufacturers can anticipate cutting-edge solutions from Mettler-Toledo that aim to boost productivity, enhance quality and offer increased safety. Our focus remains on developing machines that not only meet industry standards but also empower manufacturers to stay ahead in an ever-evolving market.

As we embark on 2024, Mettler-Toledo is poised to be at the forefront of technological advancements in the product inspection industry, offering solutions that resonate with the needs of our diverse clientele in Southeast Asia. Additionally, we are excited to share that we have a major x-ray inspection technology launch planned for 2024, aligning with the growing market requirements and aiming to exceed the expectations of retailers. This new launch will be a testament to our commitment to innovation and our dedication to providing state-of-the-art solutions for the evolving needs of the F&B sector.