A vertical startup, defined as the process of transitioning from equipment installation to full production quickly and efficiently, is important for packaging and processing companies to achieve in new operations. While 2025 startup perceptions vary from previous years, industry professionals remain set on making them a realistic, repeatable process, and present synergistic strategies to do so.
That’s according to PMMI Business Intelligence’s “Performance Optimization: Insights for Packaging Line Readiness,” a report that brings together key issues, industry insights, and recommendations from roundtable discussions and panels featured at the 2025 Top to Top Summit from February 23–25. The summit serves as a platform for OEMs and CPGs to exchange perspectives, address shared challenges, and collaborate on practical solutions.
Most participants were from the food industry (61%), with other sectors, such as pharmaceutical, representing 7% of participation.
Contrary to 2024 conversations, 2025’s Top to Top discussions held a narrower focus on avoiding post-startup performance dips. Discussions emphasized that successful vertical startups are achievable through clear communication and collaboration between OEMs and end users.
Moreover, implementing effective training strategies through use of digital tools, follow-up assessments, automated systems, and tailored learning formats play a key role in success in addition to the use of digital solutions such as AI-driven troubleshooting, interactive manuals, and augmented reality.
Lastly, to achieve a true vertical startup, companies must focus on proactive strategies that address common pitfalls. Roundtable discussions highlighted the importance of establishing metrics for success and defining what constitutes a vertical startup before installation begins to avoid performance dips.
SOURCE: PMMI Business Intelligence: 2025 Performance Optimization: Insights for Packaging Line Readiness
For more insights from PMMI’s Business Intelligence team, find reports, including “2025 Beverage Industry Packaging Trends” and “2025 Aftermarket Parts & Services” at pmmi.org/business-intelligence.
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