EuroBLECH 2024, Hannover

In 2024 the European manufacturing sector continues to face significant challenges related to high energy costs and disruptions in supply chains. According to BusinessEurope rising gas and electricity costs for industry have reached levels twice as high as pre-pandemic levels, affecting mainly short-term focused companies struggling to maintain competitiveness in a complex global environment.

We recently visited international trade shows such as BIMU and EuroBLECH where we observed the evolution of the manufacturing sector. These events highlighted how innovation and emerging technologies are the main drivers of transformation: advanced automation, robotics and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) are at the heart of solutions that improve efficiency, reduce consumption and minimize waste. Many of the live demonstrations highlighted the potential of monitoring and data collection technologies to optimize productivity, promoting sustainable production geared toward reducing operating costs.

In addition, according to a Deloitte survey, 86% of industry leaders see smart factories and automation as key to success, while 58% recognize artificial intelligence as a critical asset for optimizing processes and supporting long-term competitiveness.

In light of these dynamics the urgency for manufacturing companies is clear: innovation and sustainability are no longer just strategic goals but imperatives to remain competitive. Those who invest in a smarter more sustainable factory today will emerge tomorrow as industry leaders, capable of facing a future that rewards continuous innovation and resilience.

This is the path along which NiEW supports its clients, with an approach to innovation focused on technology adoption, knowing that the relationship between technology and its recipients is often the critical point of any digital evolution. We do this through tailored consulting, helping companies overcome the challenges of global competitiveness including through the opportunities offered by the twin transition.