NTT DATA rolls out private 5G across 50 Cargill sites
NTT DATA has deployed its private 5G network across 50 Cargill manufacturing and processing sites, marking a major multi-site industrial rollout for the technology services group.
Most of the live deployments are in the United States. Cargill also has live sites in Europe, and is considering additional regions.
Private 5G uses dedicated mobile network technology within a defined area such as a factory or plant. Companies typically consider it when wired networks are difficult to extend and when WiFi coverage and reliability vary across large industrial spaces.
Industrial Connectivity
Cargill operates large agricultural processing plants, food manufacturing facilities and other industrial sites. These environments often include vast production areas, moving equipment and structures that can disrupt radio signals.
The deployment provides secure connectivity that can be scaled across multiple sites. NTT DATA also presented the rollout as evidence that private 5G can be delivered at scale in complex industrial environments.
At sites already live, the network connects smartphones and ruggedised tablets used on the shop floor, giving frontline teams and operations staff access to enterprise applications and operational data.
Cargill is also rolling out SAP ERP across its facilities. The private 5G network supports mobile access on site to applications associated with that programme.
Devices and data
Manufacturers increasingly rely on connected devices and automated systems inside plants, driving demand for consistent wireless coverage across production lines, warehouses and outdoor yards.
In Cargill's case, NTT DATA linked the deployment to connected-workforce initiatives. It also pointed to growing use of robotics and so-called physical AI in industrial settings.
At Cargill's Amsterdam facility, for example, the company has deployed Spot the Dog. The robot is used for tasks such as visual inspections and monitoring hazards such as equipment overheating.
NTT DATA said the use case focuses on safety and operational efficiency, and that the robot can operate in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas.
Global Rollout
Large industrial groups are increasingly pursuing standardised network designs across sites, rather than relying on individual plant-level approaches. This can simplify security policy, device management and the introduction of new digital tools.
The scale of the Cargill programme suggests private 5G is moving beyond pilots and single-plant tests in some industries. Multi-site deployments also increase demand for integration, ongoing management and operational support across countries.
Cargill said additional sites are planned for completion in 2026.
Robert Greiner, Director Platform Engineering for Customer, Commercial & Business Operations Digital Technology at Cargill, described the partnership and the technology's role in the company's plans.
"Our work with NTT DATA is a true partnership, allowing us to confidently advance our global digital transformation strategy." Greiner said. "Private 5G gives us a secure, scalable foundation to support connected workers, robotics and edge AI use cases across our operations."
NTT DATA framed the deployment as part of a broader shift in manufacturing towards intelligent automation and more connected operations.
As manufacturing organizations expand the use of physical AI and intelligent automation, reliable and secure connectivity becomes foundational to digital transformation, Shahid Ahmed said. Cargill is demonstrating how Private 5G can bring technology and operations together in environments where traditional networks fall short, while improving safety, agility and performance.
NTT DATA introduced its enterprise private 5G platform in 2021 and has pitched it to organisations pursuing Industry 4.0 initiatives. The Cargill deployment is now live across 50 sites, with further expansion under review in other regions.