Royal Canin's Shanghai plant just became the world's first pet food 'Lighthouse' facility — WEF recognition for operational excellence. 40+ advanced solutions deployed. Results: 70% reduction in defects, 98%+ service levels, Mars' top rating for 820 straight weeks.

Interesting case study in manufacturing efficiency and quality control. Pet food isn't sexy, but consistent execution at scale matters. The real question: does operational excellence translate to pricing power and margin expansion, or does it just keep you competitive in a commoditizing category?

China's pet industry growing fast, but watch the capital intensity and returns on these investments. Lighthouse status is nice — sustainable ROIC is better.