As manufacturers in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) sector continuously battle inflation, currency volatility, while investors demand for short-term returns, Schneider Electric has stressed the need for manufacturers to balance profitability with sustainability amid economic uncertainties.

Rising from its recently held CPG-focused partner event in Ghana where advanced technologies tailored for the industry were showcased to key industry stakeholders across West Africa, the firm noted that manufacturers in Nigeria are faced with a difficult balancing act as a result of many focusing on immediate profitability at the expense of long-term sustainability.

Speaking on the transformative emerging trends to drive sustainability and profitability in the manufacturing sector, Country President, Schneider Electric, Ajibola Akindele, emphasised that both financial performance and environmental responsibility must be pursued together to achieve a sustainable and profitable manufacturing.

He said the engagement exemplifies the company’s commitment to supporting manufacturers with the tools and strategies to meet today’s energy and productivity challenges.

“Electrification is a crucial step forward. Nigeria’s CPG sector, particularly food and beverage manufacturing, relies on energy-intensive processes like boiling, frying, and baking.

Transitioning from diesel-powered systems to electric alternatives presents major efficiency and sustainability gains. But this shift requires a careful evaluation of infrastructure through electrical audits and investment in solutions that ensure energy reliability like microgrids, solar hybrid systems, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs),” he said.

He also said digital transformation complements electrification by bringing intelligence and agility to operations, adding that smart sensors, cloud-based platforms, and AI-driven analytics are enabling Nigerian manufacturers to gain real-time visibility across production, warehousing, and distribution.

While noting that technology alone is insufficient, he stated that companies that invest in process improvement and workforce upskilling are unlocking the true potential of digitalisation; improving product quality, reducing downtime, and boosting operational efficiency.