Innovation is everything in business. Companies must constantly adapt and change to stay relevant in their market environments. Because of this, confectionery manufacturing is always responding to these changes. But what exactly are the innovations in this niche sector of business?
In this blog, we dissect:
- Confectionery manufacturing in Virginia
- Innovation in marketing, decision-making, research and development, and training
- How Virginian confectionery manufacturers can stay ahead
Confectionery Manufacturing in Virginia
Virginia is home to several massive companies in this industry, including Mars, Forbes Candies, Helms Candy Co., and more.
However, these giants aren’t the only ones on the scene. Dozens of smaller confectionery manufacturers also exist. Many compete on a more local level and offer specialized treats.
Major Innovation Sectors
In Virginia, innovations in confectionery manufacturing often fall into one of a few specific sectors. These include marketing, decision-making, and research and development.
Marketing
Marketing is often the most important feature in maintaining competitive performance in any field. However, in confectionery manufacturing, many similar products compete to grab consumers’ attention and cultivate brand loyalty, making successful marketing even more important.
At GENEDGE, we specialize in marketing consulting manufacturing tailored to this goal. As a food manufacturing consultant, we understand what sets a company apart and what will attract consumers.
Our focus is on:
- Marketing readiness assessment
- Marketing communication
- Messaging
- Market research
- Website development
Using these and similar methods, we can develop custom marketing solutions. For example, Devils Backbone Brewing Company in the Shenandoah Valley / Blue Ridge region differentiated itself from other brewing companies in Lexington and nearby cities with our help.
Decision Making
In many cases, making better decisions leads to better innovation. By improving the process, companies can take advantage of existing opportunities and even find additional ones. Better decision-making also leads to improved productivity.
A good example is Virginia’s Finest Chocolates. This boutique chocolatier developed a reputation for high-quality, artisanal chocolates. Unfortunately, its growth came with an additional administrative burden as it considered its next move.
GENEDGE, as a food manufacturing consultant, worked with Virginia’s Finest Chocolates so that the company could understand more about operations.
Specifically, we helped by:
- Developing a cost-tracking process
- Conducting a product rationalization analysis
- Boosting profitability and operational efficiency
Through these improvements, Virginia’s Finest Chocolates could determine which products were worthwhile and find ways to get the most out of those high-performing products.
Research and Development
Staying on the right side of innovation and change is another essential part of doing business. Research and development allows confectionery manufacturing companies to discover new and transformative innovations that would have gone unknown otherwise.
For example, Bowman Andros Products recently announced plans to expand with an entirely new research and development center, focusing on diversifying its capabilities and expanding its product offerings.
The exact nature of research and development will vary from company to company. Some may focus on the technology or industrial engineering process that goes into their production facilities, using advanced manufacturing consulting to identify modern leading technologies. This way, they can jump on the trend of personalized manufacturing and more.
Training
Confectionery manufacturing heavily relies on well-trained employees to get the job done. Finding and implementing the right training methods improves business.
Traditionally, training has always been conducted in person. However, online training is increasing in popularity. Training in this way offers additional flexibility and often requires less resource drain.
In addition, more and more companies are using professional training services to offer requisite levels of training.
GENEDGE provides resourceful training programs designed to do just this.
Making the Right Innovations
Choosing the right innovations in confectionery manufacturing isn’t just guesswork. The right choices require intense deliberation and consideration. Otherwise, they are just a waste of effort.
In this way, GENEDGE is a major asset. We know what goes into improving a manufacturing company, and it can help both large and small businesses.
Are you looking for ways to improve the way your business operates? Request a No-Cost Assessment to get started.
