Manufacturing Technology

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The next decade belongs to builders

A small set of repeatable, AI- enabled business-building plays is emerging as the fastest path to growth for industrial and energy leaders. Companies that treat venture building as a repeatable capability consistently outperform, achieving faster time to market, lower capital intensity, and higher success rates. AI is the catalyst. AI is accelerating everything from product design to model testing to customer engagement, reducing the barriers that have long made industrial innovation slow, expensive, and talent intensive. The macro environment is becoming more favourable to business creation. Higher capital costs are pushing companies toward faster payback models and recurring revenue. At the same time, valuation corrections have opened a window for strategic M&A—particularly acqui-hires, data assets, and early-stage ventures that can accelerate internal builds. Recurring-revenue models Transforming one-time sales into service offerings is shifting industrial economics as companies turn one-off equipment sales into new, service-led businesses. By bundling maintenance, analytics, and guaranteed outcomes into long-term contracts, companies can smooth cash flows while helping customers reduce downtime and risk. Demand for these models is growing. Supply chain shocks and geopolitical uncertainty have made reliability a board-level issue, and service contracts provide the resilience buyers are seeking. Investors also are rewarding recurring revenue: Companies with embedded service streams and stickier customer relationships are commanding higher valuations and attracting private equity interest. On top of that, sustainability pressures are adding momentum. Extending product life cycles and reducing waste align directly with net-zero goals, allowing manufacturers to differentiate while embedding environmental responsibility into profitable business models. For industrial incumbents, recurring-revenue models are often the fastest path for translating existing assets into new ventures. Actions to take Monetise existing strengths.Identify capabilities, such as maintenance, logistics, and analytics, that can be packaged into customer-facing service offerings. Shift to outcome-based models.Build contracts tied to uptime, efficiency, or performance […]

Rockwell Automation: State of Manufacturing Report

95% of Asia Pacific Manufacturers Say Digital Transformation is Now Essential, as AI Adoption and Cyber Risks Accelerate 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report shows Asia Pacific manufacturers scaling AI, strengthening cyber defences and targeting measurable operational outcomes Rockwell Automation, Inc the world’s largest company dedicated to industrial automation and digital transformation, has released its 11th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing” report. The global study highlights insights from more than 1,500 manufacturers across 17 countries, including dedicated insights for Asia Pacific (APAC). The 2026 report highlights the transition from early-stage adoption to broader implementation: 95% of APAC manufacturers say digital transformation is essential to their competitiveness, ahead of the 90% global average, reflecting the region’s heightened urgency. Additionally, 71% of APAC organizations plan to increase artificial intelligence (AI) use and machine learning in the next 12 months. “This year’s findings show a region accelerating execution through scaling AI, hardening cyber defences and building the workforce capabilities needed to sustain growth,” said Scott Wooldridge, Regional President, Asia Pacific, Rockwell Automation. “What stands out is both the ambition and the realism. Across the region, manufacturers understand that digital transformation is the critical operating standard.” The report highlights six key perspectives that Asian manufacturers are focused on: technology investment, internal and external challenges, data utilisation, security, the workforce, and competitiveness. Key Asia Pacific (APAC) findings include: Smart Manufacturing Technology Within the context of smart manufacturing, generative AI is emerging as a central driver of transformation. 40% of manufacturers cite its impact on workforce challenges and 39% on long-term competitiveness, positioning AI as a core foundation of modern industrial operations. Respondents also note cybersecurity platforms (37%) and generative or causal AI (32%) have delivered the highest return on investment over the past 12 months. Data and AI AI adoption continues to accelerate across the region, with 71% of manufacturers planning to increase AI and machine learning usage in the next 12 months. AI augmentation is expected to grow […]

AI, strategy, and the future of work: Oxford economist Jean-Paul Carvalho

Professor Jean-Paul Carvalho explores how AI is reshaping cognitive work, organizations, and where business leaders can capture value at scale. Jean-Paul Carvalho is a professor of political economy in the Department of Economics at the University of Oxford and director of Oxford Elevate, the department’s executive education portfolio. In this episode of the Inside the Strategy Room podcast, he speaks with McKinsey Partner Robin Nuttall about what makes AI different from past waves of technology and shares the latest data on its implications for the nature of work, organisations, and business leadership. Audio Robin Nuttall: How has your own interest in AI developed as the technology has advanced, and how did the topic become a part of your programs at Oxford? Jean-Paul Carvalho: I’m naturally interested in AI because technology is the main engine of economic change. This began in the 1700s, with the Industrial Revolution bringing the ability to manufacture goods cheaply and at scale. That revolution led to cars, suburbs, advertising, consumerism, and much of what we associate with modern life today. With that, most of us have lived through an unusually stable environment. That’s changing now, and it’s taken a while for people to come to grips with it. In April 2023, Pew [Research Center] did a survey1 that showed that while 62 percent of respondents believed AI would majorly disrupt the workforce, only 28 percent believed their own job would be affected. So there has been this kind of trepidation with AI; we were forced to pay attention to AI in November 2022 when ChatGPT was released, but some heads remained in the sand. If we go back further, in 2012, the transition from symbolic AI to the deep neural nets we see today was starting to happen: Driverless cars were being trialed on the roads, AlexNet was out, and software engineers […]

2026: Shaping industry with people, technology and sustainability

In 2026, transformation across industry is accelerating. Sustainability, digitalisation and talent development sit firmly at the top of the manufacturing agenda, reshaping how companies operate and compete. Against this backdrop, Helen Blomqvist, President of Sandvik Coromant, reflects on more than 80 years of market leadership in cutting tools, and on the forces shaping the years ahead. We build the future on the foundation of our heritage Sandvik Coromant’s position as a global leader in cutting tools and manufacturing solutions is rooted in its history, but is also firmly focused on the future. At a time when transformation ranks high across the global stage, we actively support customers worldwide, helping them navigate change and unlock new opportunities. Leadership in a shifting world requires clarity of direction without losing sight of one’s roots. Even with a strong brand and a proud history, we cannot rest on that; we need to perform for growth and efficiency today while transforming our capabilities to remain the undisputed market leader tomorrow. A key part of this approach is building a culture of learning. Psychological safety and curiosity are essential, and creating an environment where people feel safe to test new ideas is crucial. High-performing, empowered teams with a strong customer-first mindset are at the heart of how we turn strategy into action. Removing the fear of failure, combined with curiosity and a strong customer focus, is essential to moving things forward. An industry in the midst of a major shift Manufacturing is undergoing a rapid technological leap. But it’s important to recognize this as representing opportunity, rather than threat. The industry is facing a major shift, with customers at different stages of the journey. Sustainability, digitalization, sharply increasing cost pressure across the value chain and the skills gap are defining trends. This is particularly evident in […]

DEEP Manufacturing expands into Houston with large-scale additive manufacturing

DEEP Manufacturing, a specialist in Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and hybrid manufacturing solutions, is expanding its U.S. operations with the launch of a new advanced manufacturing facility in Houston, bringing large-scale additive manufacturing capability closer to customers in the energy, defence and maritime sectors. The facility launched on May 6, when visitors saw examples of DEEP Manufacturing’s printing capability, including a mock-up of a pioneering new pressure-rated vessel set to be certified to DNV standards – a world first for WAAM. Additional WAAM-produced components manufactured in carbon steel and nickel-based alloys will also be on display, demonstrating the scale and flexibility of the company’s additive manufacturing capability. The move strengthens domestic manufacturing capacity for high-integrity components at a time when global supply chains remain under pressure, enabling faster production and delivery of large, complex parts used in critical industrial infrastructure. Houston is one of the world’s leading hubs for energy, subsea and industrial engineering, making it a strategic location for advanced manufacturing technologies supporting offshore, maritime and defence supply chains. DEEP Manufacturing’s new 50,000 sq ft facility represents a major step in the company’s global expansion and forms part of a wider $10 million investment in U.S. advanced manufacturing capability planned by the end of 2026. The Houston site will house four WAAM robotic systems at launch, with additional systems planned throughout the year, including capabilities for post-processing and inspection as the facility continues to scale. The facility is already operational, with the team having completed its first prints ahead of full operational readiness in May. The company currently employs 10 staff in Houston, with plans to grow the team to around 30 by the end of the year, reflecting both the pace of expansion and increasing customer demand. Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) enables large metal components to […]

Kistler presents new software features for quality assurance in medical injection moulding

Usability meets more standardisation options in AkvisIO and ComoNeo Building on user feedback from the medical device manufacturing sector, Kistler is placing even greater emphasis on usability and standardisation options with its new software versions for quality assurance in injection molding. The ComoNeo 9.0 process monitoring software makes it possible for the first time to standardize process templates across multiple locations. At the same time, AkvisIO 9.0, the process and production management software platform from Kistler, receives an update to provide an even faster overview of key production data, simplifying data-driven troubleshooting in day-to-day manufacturing. The ComoNeo hardware also features a significantly more powerful processor that better supports AI applications such as ComoNeoPREDICT as well as analysis functions for multi-cavity injection molding. Even the most powerful software only adds value if it is used to its full potential. Accordingly, usability is one of the most important factors in determining how much value production data management software will truly offer. “The new features in AkvisIO 9.0 and ComoNeo 9.0 are based on user requests, particularly those we received from the medical technology sector. However, all users will benefit, regardless of their field,” explains Daniel Kormann, Head of Business Center Medical at Kistler. “With the improved usability and the various options for customization and standardization, our new versions are specifically designed to simplify onboarding for new users.” Centralised production data management for easy troubleshooting The first immediately visible new feature in AkvisIO 9.0 is a customizable dashboard on the platform’s Home screen. It provides production and quality managers with an instant overview of all connected ComoNeo process monitoring systems. Color-coding allows users to understand machine utilization, production quality, and current scrap rates at a glance. If an injection molding machine exceeds the defined quality limits, the platform automatically triggers an alarm. Users […]

Empire of AI

An eye-opening account of the tech arms race shaping out planet, from an award-winning journalist and AI insider to the world of Sam Altman and OpenAI. When longtime AI expert and journalist Karen Hao first began covering OpenAI in 2019, she thought they were the good guys. Founded as a nonprofit with safety enshrined as its core mission, it was meant, its leader Sam Altman told us, to act as a check against more purely market forces. But the core truth of this massively disruptive sector is that it requires an unprecedented amount of proprietary resources: the ‘compute’ power of scarce high-end chips, the sheer volume of data that needs to be amassed at scale, the humans on the ground ‘cleaning it up’ for sweatshop wages throughout the Global South, and a truly alarming spike in the need for energy and water underlying everything. We have entered a new, ominous age of empire with OpenAI setting a breakneck pace, as a small group of the most valuable companies in human history try to chase it down. In exhilarating prose and with unparalleled access to those closest to Sam Altman, Hao recounts the meteoric rise of OpenAI and shows us the sinister impact that this industry is having on society.

Before you buy AI: What manufacturers need to get right first

From NZ Manufacturer magazine – May issue By Sean Doherty, Manufacturing Commentator | NZ Industry Trends There is no doubt that AI will be a game changer for manufacturers, and early adoption will give many firms a competitive advantage because manufacturing is both data-rich and operationally complex. But beware: AI only creates value when it is applied to the right problems. Too many manufacturers get distracted by the demo and find out too late that their data is poor, the tool does not fit the workflow, or ownership of the outcome is unclear. In 2026, the manufacturers most likely to succeed with AI will be those that treat it like any other investment decision. Define the need, test the assumptions, manage the risks, and measure the potential return. Before buying any AI tool, there are four practical basics to get right: the problem, the data, governance, and the pilot. Start with the problem Start by defining the problem in plain language. A manufacturer should be able to say exactly what it wants to improve: machine uptime, planning speed, forecast accuracy, scrap rates, or quality checks. “We need AI” is not a business case. It is noise. Before speaking to vendors, define success. What metric needs to move, and by how much? If the goal is less downtime, what is the baseline, and what improvement would justify the investment? If the issue is quality, is the target fewer defects, faster inspection, or less rework? Clear objectives make it much easier to spot a valuable tool and avoid an expensive distraction. Mapping the current workflow also helps. Where are decisions slow, manual, repetitive, or error-prone? Where does information stall, and what information is needed to move things forward? A simple process map can quickly reveal whether the problem is poor process design, […]

New trade fair: Warehousing and logistics strategic drivers of productivity

From NZ Manufacturer magazine Momentum was on full display at a launch function celebrating the arrival of Logistics Automation New Zealand powered by CeMAT, where more than 100 industry professionals gathered to discuss the forces reshaping supply chain operations. The event brought together CEOs and decision‑makers; both automation and robotics suppliers and integrators together with key buyers of this technology. Organisations including Beckhoff, The Warehouse Group, Fonterra, Foodstuffs, Global Express, Briscoe Group and many more. The launch served as a forum for open discussion on the pressures accelerating automation adoption — labour shortages, rising volumes, increasing service expectations and the need for scalable, efficient operations. Automation in action: Real‑World tours underscore practical value Attendees were given a rare glimpse behind‑the‑scenes tour of two major automated facilities, reinforcing the real‑world application and impact of modern intralogistics systems. Bluebird Foods (PepsiCo) hosted a tour of its Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) – backed by Dematic; demonstrating how automation boosts storage capacity, throughput and operational efficiency is achieved in a high‑volume production environment. DHL Supply Chain opened its new NZ$90 million Auckland life sciences and healthcare facility, showcasing the Geek+ robotic system deployed by Automate-X. The visit highlighted how robotics and intelligent software are improving speed, accuracy and reliability in highly regulated supply chains. Automation moves to mainstream The event featured a presentation from Stephen Lakey, Chair of the Australasian Supply Chain & Logistics Association (ASCLA), who noted the industry’s readiness to accelerate adoption. “The strong turnout and enthusiastic response highlight an industry ready to move. Events like Logistics Automation New Zealand, powered by CeMAT, are essential for helping organisations navigate the technologies, integration challenges and change management required for successful automation,” said Lakey. “ASCLA is proud to support initiatives that connect and educate supply chain professionals.” Keynote speaker Nick Becker, […]

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Resilient firms and economies: Unlocking growth in emerging markets

Resilience is like a bridge spanning a turbulent river. The waters below may surge unpredictably, but the bridge’s strength lies in its design, maintenance, and ability to withstand. The Resilience Consortium brings together governments, businesses, and multilateral development banks (MDBs) to strengthen resilience in emerging markets. Drawing on insights from the 2025 Resilience Consortium Pulse Check Survey, completed by more than 270 executives, along with a quantitative follow-up analysis, structured interviews with community members and the Consortium’s leadership group, and global, high-level convenings held throughout the year. The importance of collective action: In an era of disruption, resilience has become a key driver of competitiveness and innovation. No single actor can mitigate systemic risks alone: Businesses contribute agility, innovation, and investment; governments enable progress through effective policy and infrastructure; and MDBs mobilise capital, derisk investment, and coordinate cross-sector efforts to address systematic risks. Together, these actors can build systems capable of withstanding and adapting to shocks. Focus on emerging markets: Emerging markets, which represent nearly 60 percent of global GDP, are vital to the resilience agenda. They face exposure to trade disruptions, commodity volatility, and climate risks, yet they hold the potential to drive global growth in the decade ahead. Strengthening resilience in these economies is critical not only for their own prosperity but also for safeguarding global stability. Resilience preparedness: Organisations are becoming more resilient, but progress remains uneven. Preparedness has improved by 13 percentage points since 2024, yet only one in four companies considers itself ready to withstand major disruptions across all resilience dimensions (e.g., financial, organizational, digital and technology resilience) and this share falls to one in five when assessing resilience capabilities (i.e., crisis response, foresight, disruption preparation, and strategic re-orientation). Financial resilience remains the strongest dimension, with 40 percent of firms reporting readiness, while digital and technological […]

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