Companies4Tomorrow partners carried out a study visit to Callipo Group in Maierato, Calabria, with the aim of strengthening knowledge exchange and gaining practical insights into digital transformation and Industry 4.0 implementation in the agri-food and manufacturing sectors. The visit was part of the Transnational Meeting of the C4T project, held in Lamezia Terme on 14–15 May 2026.
The visit took place during the second day of the meeting, giving the consortium the opportunity to explore Callipo Group’s facilities, one of Italy’s most recognised tuna producers and exporters. During the visit, participants were introduced to the company’s production processes, logistics operations, quality control systems and supply chain management practices, gaining first-hand experience of how advanced technologies and digital tools are increasingly integrated into industrial processes. Special attention was given to the role of automation, digital monitoring systems, traceability mechanisms and e-commerce logistics in enhancing competitiveness and operational efficiency in the food production sector.
A key objective of the visit was to better understand the technological needs of enterprises operating in the wider Mediterranean area. The visit also aimed to identify potential Industry 4.0 actions to support SMEs through digital capacity building, workforce upskilling, smart manufacturing methodologies and innovation-driven business models. The study visit also enabled project partners to discuss how the tools, methodologies and services developed within the C4T project can contribute to supporting enterprises in their digital transition. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of Living Labs, innovation hubs and collaborative ecosystems connecting universities, research centres, chambers of commerce and businesses.
The consortium highlighted Calabria as a highly relevant ecosystem for observing industrial innovation practices and identifying opportunities for cross-border cooperation and knowledge transfer. The visit offered important insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by enterprises in Southern Italy in adapting to digital transformation processes.
