F&B digital plan updated to encourage more firms to embrace tech

New solutions focus on automation to tackle operational challenges in industry

- Anjali Raguraman Correspondent

Some small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the food services sector have embraced technology with great success, increasing productivity and reducing food waste in the process.

To encourage more businesses to do the same, the authorities launched the refreshed Food Services Industry Digital Plan (IDP) on July 16.

"Technology can allow F&B (food and beverage) businesses to focus on what they do best, and that is creating exceptional dining experiences," said Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling, who announced the plan at Restaurant Asia and Sigep Asia 2025, held at Sands Expo and Convention Centre.

This is the second update of the IDP since its inception in 2018. It was developed by Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) in consultation with industry stakeholders.

The IDP will guide SMEs in digitalising their businesses by helping them to identify suitable digital solutions and relevant training programmes as they pursue operational efficiency and productivity and improve customer experience.

Five new categories of solutions have been identified in the new IDP. Each is designed to address the top operational challenges faced by F&B businesses today, EnterpriseSG and IMDA said in a joint release on July 16.