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Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
CRB's new Horizons Report Uncovers the Operational Readiness Gap Costing Manufacturers Time, Money and Market Share
Free download report addresses the planning gaps that too often delay CPG product to consumers Horizons: Operational Readiness Kansas City, Mo., June 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Food and beverage makers understand that in capital projects, what you don't plan for can cost you – so why do so many projects fail to meet their launch deadlines, jeopardizing a manufacturer's speed-to-market advantage? That's among the questions at the heart of CRB's newest Horizons: Operational Readiness report. Based on original survey data from leading food, beverage and consumer products companies, the 2025 report explores how the smartest teams are taking the guesswork out of start-up by investing in readiness from day one. Available here as a free download, CRB's subject matter experts surveyed nearly 400 industry leaders and found that many manufacturers still underestimate the time, training, and toolsets required to achieve a vertical ramp-up. The report identifies costly missteps in readiness planning: missing stakeholder voices, rushed equipment commissioning, backloaded training, and misaligned expectations. It also provides strategies to fix them – from involving operators and OEMs earlier in the process to building structured, phase-aligned readiness toolkits. Operational readiness is under pressure from all sides. Three-quarters of survey respondents said timeline constraints routinely derail their planning efforts, while 79% pointed to inflation and shrinking budgets as major obstacles – even though most are allocating 2% to 3% of their total spend to readiness. Training is also falling short: fewer than 10% rated their current programs as 'very effective,' and nearly 20% called them completely ineffective. At the same time, complexity is rising fast, with over 60% of respondents investing in new automation – a leap that demands far more robust and forward-thinking readiness strategies than many teams currently have. 'If you've lived through a missed startup deadline, you know what comes next: scrambling. It's a period so familiar that it has its own nickname: 'The Dip' – that is, the gap in production between your ideal startup and the messy reality that unfolds in the real world,' Jason Robertson, CRB's Vice President of Food & Beverage, writes in the report's opening pages. 'The Dip happens when a streamlined launch devolves into firefighting, caused by a mix of avoidable challenges.' But the report is far from bleak. It shines a light on companies that are beating the curve by making readiness a core pillar of their capital projects. These high performers are embedding training programs into their budgets, engaging external partners for commissioning and validation, and using early cross-functional collaboration to prevent surprises at startup. Additional key takeaways from the report: Readiness can't be retrofitted: CRB's survey found that companies that delay training or toolset development usually pay the price later in downtime, turnover, and missed targets. Training is the ultimate differentiator: Structured, repeatable programs — including train-the-trainer models and even AR/VR tools — can help prevent the 'Dip' and support long-term retention. Digitization demands integration: As manufacturers race toward IT/OT convergence, planning needs to include input from operations, engineering, IT and OEMs at the outset. Structure beats standardization. Rigid playbooks often get ignored. Structured frameworks offer more flexibility and consistent outcomes across diverse projects. Budgeting matters. Companies are dedicating between 2% and 3% of their project's total capital budget to operational readiness — and seeing faster ROI as a result. 'Our clients are under more pressure than ever to hit the ground running,' said Ken VonderHaar, CRB's Director of Client Engagement and one of the report's chief contributors. 'This research can help them get there faster by making readiness real – not just as a line item, but as a mindset that shapes everything from scoping to startup.' About CRB CRB is a leading provider of sustainable engineering, architecture, construction and consulting solutions to the global life sciences and food & beverage industries. From 21 offices across the United States, Canada and Europe, our professionals provide world-class solutions that drive success and positive change for our clients, our people and our communities. CRB is a privately held company with a rich history of serving clients throughout the world, consistently striving for the highest standard of technical knowledge, creativity and execution. See us at and follow us on LinkedIn. [CC1]Embed download URL here. [AF2]FYI - this link is tracked to YOUR name Attachment Horizons: Operational Readiness CONTACT: Christopher Clark CRB Group, Inc. 816-674-0572 in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Specially trained dogs embark on critical mission to protect Hawai'i: 'This is awesome'
There's a new task force taking to the rainforests of Kaua'i, the westernmost island of the Hawaiian archipelago. A team of dogs is being trained to sniff out a palm tree-killing invasive species, the coconut rhinoceros beetle. "We're so excited to get our CRB detection dog program going on the island of Kaua'i," Conservation Dogs of Hawai'i (@conservationdogshawaii) wrote. "CRB is a highly invasive species that negatively affects palm trees as well as native plants," explained CDH, which is a local organization that uses trained service dogs to help fight the loss of biodiversity in Hawai'i. "Humans and dogs have been working together for over 20,000 years facing untold challenges of survival on every continent, in every climate, in feast and in famine. We have come this far together," CDH stated on its website. The dogs have been instrumental in detecting and removing invasive species because of their remarkable olfactory senses. In an ongoing project on O'ahu to eradicate the extremely invasive devil weed, the dogs have been very effective. "We have been impressed with the dogsʻ ability to lead their handlers to plants that are visually obscured by thick vegetation or distance (up to 90 meters away)," CDH reported. The dogs are trained to recognize the scent of the beetles and guide their handlers to them for extermination. This method helps farmers and gardeners avoid using pesticides to treat these insects. The invasive beetle has not infested all of the Hawaiian islands, the CRB response team said: "Their range in the Hawaiian Islands is currently limited to O'ahu, certain parts of Kaua'i, and recently found on Maui and Hawai'i Island." "This highly invasive species is not as widespread there as it is on O'ahu so there's still a chance to make a difference," CDH said. "This is awesome!" one commenter wrote. "Congratulations! So excited for you," another said. "I love that you guys are doing this," someone else stated. "I just chatted with an owner of a nursery this weekend who's so frustrated with the CB and he didn't know this was available." CDH responded, "Put them in touch with us and we can partner with them to survey their nursery soon." If you're feeling inspired, there are plenty of ways to take local action to tackle invasive species in your region. Volunteers are instrumental to removing invasive species, and even the smallest effort can make a big difference. Should we be actively working to kill invasive species? Absolutely It depends on the species I don't know No — leave nature alone Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
The Hindu
11-06-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Sustainability programmes to be implemented in Karur textile cluster
Select exporting companies producing home textile products in Karur will be part of a three-year sustainability programme implemented by the Centre for Responsible Business (CRB). Devyani Hari, Senior Director (Programmes) at the CRB, told The Hindu that it is implementing Life Cycle Assessment programme (InTex India) and Eco Innovation programme, funded by the Kingdom of Denmark, as a part of the UN Environment Programme. Karur and Surat apparel clusters have been identified for the Life Cycle Assessment programme and the beneficiaries in Karur will be finalised within a couple of months. The programme, which will run till September 2027, targets small and medium-scale businesses to equip with knowledge and capability to identify environmental hotspots in the life cycle of a product and document the details. The CRB will also work with the Union Ministry of Textiles, form cluster coordination committees, and share inputs for policy formations, she said. According to a press release, at a workshop on 'Advancing Sustainability & Circularity in Karur Textile Cluster', organised recently in Karur by the Karur Textile Manufacturer Exporters Association (KTMEA) along with Karur Handloom Export Cloth Manufacturers Association (KHEXMASS), CII, Karur Knitting and Weaving Factory Owners Association and Karur Dyers & Bleachers Association and the Centre for Responsible Business (CRB) and Intellecap, more than 100 textile manufacturers and exporters participated. The aim is to promote sustainability and circularity among the textile and apparel industry in Karur, said a press release. P. Gopalakrishnan, president of KTMEA, emphasised the need for sustainable growth, to stay updated with the latest international and national developments and to showcase the strength and the potential of the Karur cluster. The release added that the InTex India programme will provide hands-on support for Life Cycle Assessment to atleast 15 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and develop a knowledge sharing mechanism to facilitate exchange of knowledge, experiences and success stories across different textile and apparel clusters the country. Under the EU Switch Asia - SME Decarbonization, Intellecap, through its Circular Apparel Innovation Factory (CAIF) initiative, will empower SMEs with knowledge, tools, resources and financing to align with global sustainability standards, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in global supply chains. This 42-month initiative focuses on reducing the environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions of 250-400 SMEs across key clusters in India's textile and apparel value chain, including Karur, said a press release.
Fibre2Fashion
09-06-2025
- Business
- Fibre2Fashion
Karur textile cluster to deepen focus on sustainability & circularity
A crucial awareness workshop on 'Advancing Sustainability & Circularity in Karur Textile Cluster' was organised in the Karur textile cluster last week. The event brought together local manufacturers, exporters, industry associations, and government officials to discuss and commit to greener practices. Major programmes aimed at promoting sustainability and circularity will support the industry in adopting environmentally friendly production methods. Eminent speakers from the government and industry set the context for the workshop discussions. P Gopalakrishnan, president of Karur Textile Manufacturers Exporters Association (KTMEA), in his inaugural address, emphasised the need for sustainable growth, staying updated with the latest national and international developments, and showcasing the strength and potential of the Karur cluster. An awareness workshop on 'Advancing Sustainability & Circularity in Karur Textile Cluster' gathered manufacturers, exporters, and officials to promote eco-friendly practices. Industry leaders and experts shared sustainable initiatives and global trends. Programmes by CRB, Intellecap, and InTex India aim to support SMEs in adopting circular models. M Prabhu, chairman of CII - Karur District, delivered an industry address reaffirming CII-Karur's vision and commitment, and shared good practices from other sectors that could be adapted by the textile industry. R Kaliyappan, president of the Karur Handloom Export Cloth Manufacturers Association (KHEXMASS), highlighted the spirit of sustainability and the responsibility to leave a cleaner, greener planet for future generations. M Palanivel Rajan, chief operating officer of Asian Fabricx Private Limited, shared information about the progressive practices at Asian Fabricx and also highlighted sustainable initiatives undertaken by the Karur cluster. S Periasamy, a senior textile expert and sustainability advisor to the Tiruppur Exporters Association, addressed the workshop on 'Global Trends and the Relevance of Sustainability & Opportunities for SMEs'. Key programmes were also discussed, with relevant information shared with industry participants. Dr. Prabhat Bhuddha Dev from CRB and Siddharth Lulla from Intellecap presented their initiatives and invited SMEs to actively participate. InTex India has initiated a project for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the Karur cluster, which will provide hands-on support for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to at least 15 SMEs. The programme will also engage key stakeholders in developing and implementing a vision for a sustainable and circular textile cluster in Karur. Intellecap, through its Circular Apparel Innovation Factory (CAIF) initiative, is implementing the programme 'Catalyzing the Green Transition of India's Textile & Apparel Value Chain', with support from the European Union under its Switch Asia Initiative. This 42-month initiative focuses on reducing environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions across 250–400 SMEs in key clusters of India's textile and apparel value chain. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KUL)
Economic Times
30-05-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Interest rates, dollar sales boost RBI income by 27%
RBI's FY25 net income surged by 27% due to higher global interest rates and dollar sales, enabling a record surplus transfer to the government. Increased returns from foreign currency assets and forex transactions significantly contributed to this rise. The central bank also strategically increased its gold holdings to bolster its asset mix and manage risks. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Income from Forex Transactions Up 33% Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Price Stability, Liquidity A surge in global interest rates and gains from dollar sales to stem the rupee's fall boosted the Reserve Bank of India's (RBI's) FY25 net income by 27%, enabling it to transfer a record surplus to the central government and help bridge the fiscal gap. North Block's money manager also demonstrated the prudence it expects from mainstream lenders, boosting gold holdings in its overall asset mix to mitigate quality slippage central bank's net income rose to ₹2.69 lakh crore last fiscal, up from ₹2.11 lakh crore a year earlier, as its investments in overseas assets yielded decade-high returns, its annual report shows.'Income from foreign sources increased 38% to ₹2.58 lakh crore,'' the annual report said. 'The rate of earnings on foreign currency assets was 5.31% during the year compared with 4.21%'' in the year before that.A sharp increase in the returns from foreign currency assets (FCA) of the central bank helped it last week pay a dividend of ₹2.69 lakh crore to the government, up from ₹2.1 lakh crore a year ago, giving the Centre a fiscal space of 0.12% of payout was higher despite an increase in the contingency risk buffer (CRB) to a maximum 7.5% of the RBI's balance sheet under a revised economic capital framework (ECF).'Earnings on FCA improved significantly on account of better returns on the dollar,'' said Dipanwita Mazumdar, economist at Bank of Baroda . 'This becomes critical given that our forex reserves held by the RBI have been increasing and are being invested in various avenues.''Interest income from investments in foreign securities was up 48% to ₹97,007 crore against ₹65,328 crore in FY24. The report also says that RBI's income from foreign exchange transactions rose 33% to ₹1.11 lakh crore in FY25, against ₹83,616 crore a year ago.'This ensures that the Centre meets its fiscal deficit target of 4.4% of GDP—if not exceed,' said Gaura Sengupta, chief economist, IDFC FY19, the RBI adopted the ECF that required the central bank to maintain a contingency risk buffer of 5.5–6.5%.'The dividend would have been even higher if the provisioning wasn't increased to 7.5% of total assets from 6.5% earlier,' said Sengupta. 'Indeed, if the provisioning was maintained according to the old framework, the dividend would have been ₹3.5 lakh crore.'Under the revised ECF, the CRB is 4.5–7.5% of the central bank's balance sheet.'The dividend announcement, though lower than market expectation, was still larger than the budgeted estimate by 0.15% of GDP,'' said Anubhuti Sahay, Head of India Economics Research, Standard Chartered forward, domestic economic activity is expected to strengthen from the lows of the first half of FY25, said the annual report. The economic outlook is an important deciding factor in arriving at the CRB inflation is expected to ease and move further toward the legally mandated target in 2025–26, said the annual report. Monetary policy is committed toward achieving durable price stability, which is a necessary prerequisite for high growth on a sustained basis, said the Reserve Bank will undertake liquidity management operations in sync with the monetary policy stance and keep system liquidity adequate to meet the needs of the productive sectors of the economy, said the annual FY25, the RBI's total expenditure rose 7.76% to ₹69,714 crore, due to higher interest spends, printing of notes and employee expenditure also includes provisions toward the contingency fund and asset development fund (ADF). However, no provision was made toward amount of ₹44,861.70 crore was provided toward the contingency fund to maintain the Available Realised Equity at the level of 7.5% of the balance sheet. Accordingly, the balance in CF as on March 31, 2025, was ₹5.42 lakh crore, compared with ₹4.29 lakh crore as on March 31, size of the balance sheet increased by ₹5.78 lakh crore, or 8.2%, to ₹76.25 lakh crore. The increase on the assets side was due to a rise in gold holdings, domestic investments and foreign investments by 52%, 14.3% and 1.7%, the liabilities side, expansion was due to an increase in notes issued, revaluation accounts, and other liabilities by 6.03%, 17.32% and 23.31%, assets constituted 25.73% while foreign currency assets, gold (including gold deposit and gold held in India) and loans and advances to financial institutions outside India constituted 74.27% of total assets as on March 31, 2025, against 23.31% and 76.69%, respectively, as on March 31, share of gold in net foreign assets increased to 12% as at end-March 2025 from 8.3% as at end-March 2024, mainly due to revaluation gains from gold credit to the government expanded during the year owing to the liquidity injection through purchase of G-secs via open market operations during January–March 2025.
