Manufacturing plants in South Africa have been adopting various systems to enhance efficiency and sustainability. A randomized field trial was conducted among 200 manufacturing plants, with data collected on system implementation and adoption outcomes. In the first phase of the trial, 75% of the participating plants adopted at least one new system. System X showed a significant increase in productivity by 15% compared to baseline levels (mean difference = 15%, CI: [3-27], p < 0.01). The trial demonstrated that certain manufacturing systems significantly improve efficiency, with System X being the most effective. Manufacturers should prioritise the adoption of proven efficient systems to enhance productivity and sustainability. manufacturing plant systems, adoption rates, randomized field trial, productivity improvement