Mike Ball , Opta Group Global COO , explains how the company has rapidly evolved from supplier to full-service solutions provider
 Issue 227 - 2024
 Main Interview Insights into packaging trends from an innovative industry player
 3D Printing The search is on for more sustainable processes and materials
 Artificial Intelligence Harnessing the power of AI to deliver better customer relationships
 Editorial Sidebars
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 Hello and welcome to the latest issue of Manufacturing Today . In this month ’ s magazine , we put some questions to Paula Birch , Group Managing Director at Parkside Flexibles . With over two decades of
 experience in packaging , Paula shares some fascinating insights into what ’ s on the agenda and what ’ s coming up for the sector .
 Alongside Paula ’ s Q & A , Guy Armstrong from Oracle reveals how AI and cloud CRM can bring value in times where businesses must do more with less , and Professor Chris Tuck highlights some new approaches in 3D printing . Comau looks at intelligent automation and Qiang Huang from Palo Alto Networks discusses why OT and IT security should be more intimately connected .
 These features are complemented by our dedicated profiles of individual businesses – their strategies for success make for fascinating reading .
 Libbie Hammond , Editor LH @ finelightmediagroup . com
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 Our cover story this month takes you inside Opta Group . Read about its bold acquisition strategy and further plans for the future .
 Turn to page 30 to learn more .
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 Please note : The opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers within this publication do not necessarily coincide with those of the editor and publisher . Every reasonable effort is made to ensure that the information published is accurate , and correct at time of writing , but no legal responsibility for loss occasioned by the use of such information can be accepted by the publisher . All rights reserved . The contents of the magazine are strictly copyright , the property of Finelight Media Group , and may not be copied , stored in a retrieval system , or reproduced without the prior written permission of the publisher .
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