Automation, digitalisation, sustainability From challenges to opportunities: Manufacturing meets innovation at EMO 2025

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Verein Deutscher Werkzeug- maschinenfabriken e. V. (VDW)

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The European manufacturing sector faces economic and structural challenges, but innovation and diversification offer opportunities. EMO 2025, the leading trade fair for production technology, will spotlight automation, digitalisation, and sustainability, with over 1,200 exhibitors showcasing solutions for the future of manufacturing.

The mood in the manufacturing sector could be better. A weak global industrial economy, geopolitical tensions and trade conflicts, as well as structural challenges, are increasingly weighing on European industrial goods manufacturers. It is no wonder that Germany, the world’s third-largest mechanical engineering nation, is also severely affected. The generally sluggish demand and a business with China that is not picking up speed are weighing on the export-intensive industry in Germany.

The cautious economic expectations are also reflected in the current figures from the VDW (German Machine Tool Builders' Association): Incoming orders for German manufacturers fell by 23 percent in the first three quarters of 2024 compared to the same period of the previous year. “The current order situation remains difficult,” explains Dr. Markus Heering, Executive Director of the VDW. “The news from the automotive industry is worrying.” It remains one of the most important customer industries. But at around 27 per cent of its production, the German machine tool industry supplied 16 percent less to the automotive and automotive supply industry last year than it did four years earlier. According to the VDW, the transformation to electric drives means that significantly less is being invested in machining.

At the same time, machine tool manufacturers are increasingly focusing on other customer target groups. With a share of around 30 percent, mechanical engineering is now the most important customer sector for the first time. This includes companies from tool and mould making, the machine tool industry itself, manufacturers of agricultural machinery and components such as hydraulics and pneumatics, as well as drive technology. In addition, the aerospace, electrical engineering and metal production sectors are becoming increasingly important for machine tool manufacturers. The share of rail vehicle construction and energy technology, precision mechanics and medical technology has also continued to rise.

As the world's leading trade fair for production technology, EMO wants to offer a platform for suppliers of metalworking solutions to address these customers. From 22 to 26 September 2025, the ‘showcase of innovations’ will not only look back on a 50-year success story. With its three key topics of automation, digitalisation and sustainability, the EMO offers a dedicated insight into the production of tomorrow.

Over 1,200 companies have already registered, underscoring EMO’s relevance even in challenging times.

Industry leaders like Dr. Thorsten Schmidt, CEO of the Heller Group, highlight EMO’s importance as a hub for innovation and global networking. Schmidt emphasizes the fair’s role in strengthening partnerships and driving technological advancements.

Exhibitors like Supfina, a surface treatment systems manufacturer, see opportunities in e-mobility, wind power, and sustainable production. The company is investing in digitalisation and automation to enhance efficiency and maintain high-quality standards. At EMO, Supfina plans to unveil a groundbreaking machine concept to appeal to diverse industries.

Similarly, Datron AG, specializing in milling and dispensing solutions, is leveraging its German engineering roots to stay competitive. Despite economic challenges, Datron is investing 40 million euros in a new technology complex and focusing on talent development. The company views EMO as a platform to present advanced technologies and gain market insights.

Peiseler, a manufacturer of precision components, is tackling structural changes in the automotive sector by diversifying into aerospace, medical technology, and additive manufacturing. Managing Director Arnd Kulaczewski highlights EMO as a key venue to showcase the company’s high-tech innovations to a global audience.

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