Cargill has deployed a private 5G network across 50 manufacturing and processing facilities worldwide to support edge artificial intelligence (AI), real-time automation, and enhanced production visibility. The rollout, initiated in early 2026, primarily covers sites in the United States, with additional installations in Europe and further expansion planned later this year. The network enables connected frontline teams to access SAP enterprise resource planning (ERP) data on ruggedized tablets and smartphones, while supporting robotics and AI-driven inspections. Cargill partnered with NTT DATA and Celona to integrate the network with existing control systems and plant operations.
Background
Cargill's accelerated deployment signals a transition from pilot programs to large-scale adoption of private 5G infrastructure. The company expanded from approximately 20 U.S. test locations to 50 operational sites within six months, establishing private 5G as core connectivity for its operations. This initiative aligns with Cargill's broader Industry 4.0 transformation strategy, which targets improved operational responsiveness and safety in environments where traditional Wi-Fi or wired connections may be unreliable. The collaboration commenced in mid-2025 and advanced rapidly into early 2026.
Details
The private 5G network provides frontline workers with low-latency access to ERP and production data on durable mobile devices, enhancing real-time production visibility and supporting faster operational decisions, according to NTT DATA. The network also enables AI robotics, such as the 'Spot the Dog' system at Cargill's Amsterdam site, which conducts automated visual inspections and monitors hazards in inaccessible areas to improve safety. Robert Greiner, Director of Platform Engineering - Customer, Commercial & Business Operations Digital Technology at Cargill, stated the secure, scalable infrastructure supports key edge AI and automation initiatives. NTT DATA and Celona delivered managed private 5G services, utilizing Celona's AerFlex system-expanded from initial trials to enterprise scale. Industry analysts note this deployment represents one of the fastest large-scale private 5G implementations in industrial manufacturing to date.
Outlook
Cargill plans to extend private 5G connectivity to additional global facilities through 2026, establishing the network as a reliable foundation for expanded digital operations, robotics deployments, edge AI applications, and real-time analytics across its manufacturing footprint.
