The Automation Imperative: Why Manufacturers Must Adopt or Fall Behind

The manufacturing landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by global competition, complex supply chains, and persistent workforce challenges. In this dynamic environment, manufacturers seek innovative solutions to maintain competitiveness, enhance productivity, and ensure long-term viability. Survey data confirms that automation is becoming central to this shift, reshaping efficiency, quality, and adaptability across the sector.
Dec. 15, 2025

The Automation Imperative: Why Manufacturers Must Adapt or Fall Behind reveals a widening gap between manufacturers’ recognition of automation as a strategic necessity and their ability to execute it effectively. While an overwhelming 92% of manufacturers surveyed say automation is critical to long-term competitiveness, only 37% report significant or full automation today.

The report underscores that future competitiveness depends not just on investing in automation, but on rethinking how it is planned and deployed. Nearly three-quarters of manufacturers plan to increase automation investments within the next three years, with 46% prioritizing robotics in the near term. To capture full value, manufacturers must adopt faster, more integrated approaches that simplify deployment, address skills gaps, and better serve small and mid-sized enterprises.

Download the full report to explore the data-backed insights, challenges, and strategic recommendations shaping the future of manufacturing automation.