Mengniu has received the prestigious ‘lighthouse factory’ certification from the World Economic Forum (WEF) for operating the world’s first fully intelligent dairy factory in Ningxia, China. This recognition underscores Mengniu’s commitment to innovation, particularly through the use of Tetra Pak’s comprehensive solutions, complemented by a robust network of specialists and partners.
The WEF highlighted Mengniu’s implementation of over 30 advanced use cases from the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution’ (4IR). Co-designed by Mengniu and Tetra Pak, this facility uses Tetra Pak’s digital platform alongside cutting-edge production technology. At the Ningxia factory, digital systems seamlessly oversee the entire processing and packaging operations, enabling real-time performance monitoring and automatic routing to optimal equipment.
Thanks to these advancements, the facility has achieved remarkable efficiencies, reducing operational costs by 32%, delivery lead times by 55%, and quality defects by 60%. Fully automated, the plant is supervised by ‘maintenance and operation engineers’ who receive immediate alerts about any events requiring their attention. This system is engineered to enhance efficiency and attract a digitally capable workforce.
The vision for the Ningxia site was ambitious: to establish the highest annual efficiency among dairy factories globally. With a workforce of just 100 employees, it aims to produce over 1 million tonnes of dairy products annually, generating a production value of RMB10 billion (€1.3 billion).
Tetra Pak’s strategic combination of state-of-the-art technologies and superior plant integration capabilities significantly contributed to the success of the Mengniu facility. This includes 24 filling lines—currently, nine are operational—featuring the Tetra Pak® E3/Speed Hyper, the fastest carton packaging machine in the world, alongside a digital control room from which Mengniu’s operators manage and monitor all manufacturing activities in real-time.
Li Pengcheng, Executive President at Mengniu comments: “After over 25 years in the dairy business, Mengniu wanted to bring together its accumulated wealth of manufacturing experience to optimise operations — establishing 100% consistent production and management processes with the help of digitalisation. Together with Tetra Pak and our other partners, we are setting new standards for the future of dairy production.”
Sean Sims, Vice President Automation and Solutions at Tetra Pak, added: “We are thrilled to congratulate Mengniu on receiving the prestigious ‘lighthouse’ certification from the World Economic Forum. As a long-term partner, we are proud to have supported their journey towards greater innovation and sustainability in dairy production. This recognition highlights their dedication to adopting advanced technologies that are shaping the future of the industry in China. We remain committed to working alongside Mengniu, providing cutting-edge solutions that align with their goals and continuing to drive sustainable growth within the dairy sector.”
