Danone collaborates with Microsoft to integrate AI throughout operations

Danone is exploring a multi-year collaboration with Microsoft to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) throughout its operations.

The companies intend to launch a Danone Microsoft AI Academy, dedicated to upskilling all Danone employees to ensure that all “Danoners” are equipped with AI and digital tools.

It builds on Danone’s recently launched ‘DanSkills’ programme, which aims to upskill and reskill around 100,000 Danone employees to the jobs of the future. 50,000 Danone employees can already leverage AI in their day-to-day job, using tools like Microsoft Copilot.

The Academy intends to provide a wide range of learning opportunities to enhance AI literacy and expertise across the organisation.

Danone said it wants to create a “dynamic and inclusive skilling environment that evolves with workforce needs”. The program also aims to promote collaboration and innovation, reinforcing Danone’s commitment to empowering its employees with essential AI skills and preparing the organisation for future challenges.

Initially, the companies will explore creating an AI-enabled supply chain to:

• Elevate operational efficiency, enabling a smarter, more responsive approach to managing logistics and manufacturing through predictive forecasting, real-time adjustments and streamlined operations.
• Develop digital twinning of core skills to assist data driven decision making by core professionals in Danone’s procurement, production and distribution teams.

Danone’s CFO, Jurgen Esser, said: “Our collaboration with Microsoft will accelerate our AI transformation, providing us with the tools, technology, and expertise to explore new frontiers in data analysis, operational efficiency, and consumer engagement. Working together is not just about technology; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation and performance across our organisation.”

Hayete Gallot, corporate vice president, commercial solutions areas said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Danone on this transformative journey and support them with our AI solutions to foster innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and increase data-driven decision-making across all functions. With our future Danone Microsoft AI Academy, we aim to empower Danone’s workforce with the tools and expertise needed to excel in the AI-driven economy.”

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