The AR technology will be used by the company for setting up or redesigning factory lines. Credit: Nestlé.

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Nestlé has decided to expand the usage of augmented reality (AR) technology to offer remote support to production and research and development (R&D) sites amid coronavirus (Covid-19) travel restrictions.

The Swiss firm will also use this technology to remotely connect with suppliers.

The AR technology will be used by the company for setting up or redesigning factory lines, carrying out important maintenance works and checking equipment with suppliers.

Nestlé noted that the technology helped its R&D teams in the UK to work with its suppliers to remotely redesign and test new confectionery moulds for KitKat.

In Thailand, the technology allowed the company’s R&D teams to renew the existing and install new production lines and technologies for a dairy ready-to-drink (RTD) factory in Navanakorn, as well as facilitated factory completion ahead of schedule.

The AR technology also enabled the company to install a new production line for infant cereals in Shuangcheng, China.

Nestlé Manufacturing global head David Findlay said: “Protecting our people is a top priority for Nestlé, something that has been clearly demonstrated time and time again during the Covid-19 crisis. The remote support approach isn’t just a response to Covid-19 though.