--- title: Manufacturing Trends 2026: Maintaining A Competitive Edge --- # Manufacturing Trends 2026: Maintaining A Competitive Edge Last Reviewed: May 13, 2026 16 min read [2 comments](https://www.selecthub.com/manufacturing/manufacturing-trends/#comments) [ ![Khaleel Hayes](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Khaleel-96x96.jpg) ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) [Written by Khaleel Hayes](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) Technical Content Writer [ ![Hunter Lowe](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cropped-Hunter-Headshot-96x96.jpg) ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/hunter-lowe/) [Edited by Hunter Lowe](https://www.selecthub.com/author/hunter-lowe/) Content Editor [ ![Lisa Anderson](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Lisa-Anderson-96x96.jpg) ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/lisa-anderson/) [Contributions by Lisa Anderson](https://www.selecthub.com/author/lisa-anderson/) Manufacturing & Supply Chain Strategist, [Thought Leader ](https://www.selecthub.com/thought-leaders/) [ ![Sam Gupta](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Sam-Gupta-96x96.jpg) ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/sam-gupta/) [Contributions by Sam Gupta](https://www.selecthub.com/author/sam-gupta/) Expert Contributor, [Thought Leader ](https://www.selecthub.com/thought-leaders/) Table of Contents * [Key Takeaways](#Key%5FTakeaways) * [Top Manufacturing Trends for 2024](#Top%5FManufacturing%5FTrends%5Ffor%5F2024) * [1\. Attracting and Retaining Workforce Talent](#1%5FAttracting%5Fand%5FRetaining%5FWorkforce%5FTalent) * [2\. Digital Twin Usage](#2%5FDigital%5FTwin%5FUsage) * [3\. Smart Factories](#3%5FSmart%5FFactories) * [4\. Carbon Neutrality and Company Responsibilities](#4%5FCarbon%5FNeutrality%5Fand%5FCompany%5FResponsibilities) * [5\. Supply Chain Stability](#5%5FSupply%5FChain%5FStability) * [Technologies to Consider](#Technologies%5Fto%5FConsider) * [Manufacturing Process Types](#Manufacturing%5FProcess%5FTypes) * [Other Methodologies](#Other%5FMethodologies) * [Next Steps](#Next%5FSteps) What are the most essential manufacturing trends of 2025? I hate to burst your bubble, but this industry doesn’t just focus on AI, IoT, data mining or advanced [manufacturing software](https://www.selecthub.com/c/manufacturing-software/). We’re talking about the big-picture patterns that are shaping the future of manufacturing as we speak. This guide will tell you how to retain labor, keep a carbon-neutral work environment, maintain a positive reputation and more. ## Key Takeaways * Some ideal technologies for manufacturing include IoT, IIoT, AI and data mining. * When adopting smart factories, there should be a harmonious balance between machines and humans. * Top manufacturing process types include repetitive, discrete, process, continuous, job shop, 3D printing and more. * Ideal ways to attract and retain manufacturing employees are giving them satisfactory work environments, liveable pay and benefits, training opportunities. and more. * Because of the digital twin market’s resourcefulness across the manufacturing and PLM sectors, this market could hit $155.84 billion in value by 2030. ![Manufacturing Trends in 2024]() ## Top Manufacturing Trends for 2024 ### 1\. Attracting and Retaining Workforce Talent “Good help is hard to find these days” is likely what most companies think when it comes to finding and keeping employees, making employee retention one of many vital manufacturing industry trends. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a [report](https://www.bls.gov/web/empsit/ceshighlights.pdf) stating manufacturing employment decreased by 32,000 in October 2023 before rising by 30,000 in November 2023, mainly in the motor vehicle sector due to strikes, layoffs and reconciliation. Chad Meeks, president of [VizmaPro](https://vizmapro.com/), spoke to SelectHub about the manufacturing industry’s lackluster appeal. ![Chad Meeks]() Being a manufacturing production worker has been viewed as something other than a glamorous job. My generation was indoctrinated to believe that the only path to success in life was a college degree. Somehow, over the last 50-60 years, manufacturing went from something that could support a family to a last-resort occupation. Chad Meeks President, VizmaPro ![Chad Meeks Quote on Manufacturing]() Sam Gupta, principal consultant of [ElevatIQ](https://www.elevatiq.com/), described the central issue of differing expectations and realities among facilities and workers. ![Sam Gupta]() Manufacturers are reluctant to increase wages, and high living costs deter talent from stressful, underpaid work. Many seek better opportunities due to the changing economy, with roles like Uber driving offering more lucrative options than manufacturing. The job demands are high, making it difficult to justify personnel cost. Sam Gupta Principal Consultant, ElevatIQ The challenge, however, is that pay _is_ a central component, according to [Chuck Langenhop](https://www.linkedin.com/in/chucklangenhop/), certified CMA and Senior Director at CFO Advisory Services. Langenhop also stressed that pay alone isn’t enough. ![Chuck Langenhop]() For long-term retention, in my opinion, the two criteria are pay parity and employee job satisfaction. While pay studies are analytical, there are many criteria that foster job satisfaction. Supportive management and teamwork with inter-departmental collaboration are important for creating a cohesive organization with low turnover. Making jobs more interesting and providing development opportunities including cross-training, also make employees feel valued and help them see that they have a future with their company. Chuck Langenhop Certified CMA and Senior Director, CFO Advisory Services This sentiment was echoed by Lisa Anderson, founder and president of [LMA Consulting Group Inc](https://www.lma-consultinggroup.com). ![Lisa Anderson]() Pay alone will not suffice. In our experience, the most important priority to retaining top talent is company culture and leadership. People do not follow companies. They follow leaders. Our clients with leaders who appreciate talent, offer training and advancement opportunities, and are willing to address poor performers and tough topics are respected and successful. On the other hand, clients with volatile leaders are losing talent at a quick pace. Lisa Anderson Founder and President, LMA Consulting Group Inc ### 2\. Digital Twin Usage Digital twins allow you to visualize and simulate your merchandise in a digital atmosphere. This technology is one of many other significant trends in manufacturing and [PLM](https://www.selecthub.com/plm/plm-trends/). Wendy Wang, international trade specialist and owner of outdoor furniture cover store [F&J Outdoors](https://fj-outdoors.com/), described the other benefits of investing in digital twins and embracing digitization. ![Wendy Wang]() Beyond saving costs, digital twins help manufacturers prevent unplanned downtime and extend machinery life since they can predict when maintenance is needed. Digital tools can increase productivity, optimize resource usage and enhance the overall efficiency of manufacturing operations. Manufacturers also need to understand that in today’s world, sustainability isn’t optional; it’s a business imperative. Wendy Wang International Trade Specialist and Owner, F&J Outdoors Anderson described how digital twins can offer what-if analyses to maximize operations and boost client results. ![Lisa Anderson]() For example, a collaborative review of shop floor plans can generate ideas for improvement before performing the physical layout. Additionally, digital twins enable collaborative review of a product or process design, which can result in improved product performance and superior customer results with less effort, reduced waste and improved operational performance. Digital twins also analyze demand and supply plan scenarios to optimize inventory and performance. Lisa Anderson Founder and President, LMA Consulting Group Inc The digital twin’s resourcefulness is likely why Research and Markets predicts the [global digital twin market](https://www.researchandmarkets.com/reports/5415584/digital-twin-market-size-share-and-trends) could reach $155.84 billion in 2030. ![Digital Twin Stat]() ### 3\. Smart Factories Smart factories, which are more significant trends in manufacturing, are digital facilities that use IoT, connected devices, machines, production systems, and more to gather and share data. Gupta gave additional insight into the concept of smart factories. ![Sam Gupta]() Smart factories are not necessarily meant to replace human workers. Smart means rather than having mechanical machines, you are going to have computerized machines, which can be controlled, regulated and operated through command centers. The role of human\[s\] is still important with smart factories in debugging, optimizing throughput \[and\] monitoring. The machines can’t be fully autonomous. They will always require human inputs to some degree even if it is only for debugging. Sam Gupta Principal Consultant, ElevatIQ Meeks explained how technology can meet numerous criteria to boost productivity and that companies still need a human presence. ![Chad Meeks]() Regarding productivity, there are many variables at play for a manufacturer. Ultimately, it comes down to the production team member having the right components at the right time, the necessary training and the right equipment. Smart factories can help if implemented well in all three of these categories. \[However,\] businesses are people. Without people, there are no businesses. The beauty of automation is that it allows humans to focus on what they are great at versus doing mundane tasks. There will always be a balance between machines and humans. The day that machines do it all for us will be the day we lose what makes us human. Chad Meeks President, VizmaPro ![Chad Meeks Quote]() Langenhop also shared a few limitations that manufacturers need to take into account. ![Chuck Langenhop]() I think that the opportunity related to smart factories is limited by two factors. First of all, does the technology exist? Certain functions in manufacturing cannot be fully automated. An example is quality control. While certain tests can be performed in-line, such as for pH or temperature, others may have to be performed manually or visually. Second, if the technology exists, is it cost-effective to implement? For a large company shipping many small items, pick-by-light technology can improve accuracy and productivity. For a small company with a small number of items, however, this technology may not be a good investment. Chuck Langenhop Certified CMA and Senior Director, CFO Advisory Services ### 4\. Carbon Neutrality and Company Responsibilities Reaching carbon neutrality and upholding a good company reputation are other significant manufacturing industry trends to adopt. Carbon neutrality is a status that means you allocate small amounts of carbon dioxide and reduce your carbon footprint. Driving electric cars or installing solar panels on your house are examples of reaching carbon neutrality. Meeks explained that companies lack heart if they don’t show some commitment to the environment or their customers’ concerns. ![Chad Meeks]() The great businesses that will be here in 10, 15 and 50 years are those that are not short-sighted. They proactively look to source materials from sustainable sources, and they recognize and try to minimize their impact on the environment. It is in the best interest of all corporations to be proactive in becoming carbon neutral. Major hurdles currently prevent manufacturing organizations from becoming 100% carbon neutral. However, any business can be proactive in minimizing its environmental impact. Chad Meeks President, VizmaPro Maintaining a good image for your company by partnering with universities or community colleges, donating to charities, giving back to those in need, and more ensures you maintain a good image and reputation. Gupta explained that caring about the environment attracts customers and employees. ![Sam Gupta]() Sometimes consumers are only willing to buy from companies that are friendly for the environment and with good reputations so the active social role becomes critical. Also, if hiring is an issue for you and if your employees care to work for a company that is environmentally friendly, then you can do good while getting the attention of your employees and customers. Sam Gupta Principal Consultant, ElevatIQ Ultimately, according to Langenhop, manufacturers have to walk the fine line between business and social responsibility. ![Chuck Langenhop]() I believe that responsible manufacturers want to maintain a good image with regards to environmental protection and social issues. While businesses and their investors fundamentally consider profitability and regulatory compliance as their primary goals, balancing the other needs and interests of lenders, customers, and members of the local community, are also important. Chuck Langenhop Certified CMA and Senior Director, CFO Advisory Services ### 5\. Supply Chain Stability Lastly, although the COVID-19 pandemic is a distant memory, its aftershock still ripples through people, businesses and the global supply chain. Anderson suggested utilizing backup sources. ![Lisa Anderson]() The important priority is to use the backup source of supply on an ongoing basis so that you both are ready to jump into action as obstacles occur. Use 20% of your purchases as a good metric for success. In addition, build flexibility and resiliency into your supply chain so that you are prepared for the unexpected. Roll out technology advances so that visibility of the end-to-end supply chain is improved so that your team can jump into action with early warning indicators of bottlenecks. Lastly, reshore, nearshore and expand manufacturing closer to your customers and secure reliable sources of supply. Lisa Anderson Founder and President, LMA Consulting Group Inc ![Lisa Anderson Quote on Supply Chain]() Meeks offered a few suggestions for preventing stockouts, although these methods aren’t surefire. ![Chad Meeks]() Choose suppliers who effectively communicate with you. Be proactive in communicating with your suppliers and provide them with expectations and projections. Set inventory minimums based on consumption, lead times and safety stock. Regularly review your supply chain and perform a risk assessment. When possible, have multiple suppliers for all critical components. Chad Meeks President, VizmaPro Gupta mentioned that the supply chain needs careful thinking and planning and that there’s the risk of no one having control over it. ![Sam Gupta]() By the nature of supply chain, you can only plan when things are a little bit predictable and stable. If there are going to be macroeconomic and geopolitical factors driving supply chain, you need to take \[a\] slightly more tactical approach and plan every day. There is no other way. Sam Gupta Principal Consultant, ElevatIQ ## Technologies to Consider You didn’t think we’d leave out advanced technology altogether, did you? We’ve compiled a compact list of the top technological trends manufacturers use and will continue operating in 2024. ![Manufacturing Technologies To Consider]() * **Internet of Things (IoT):** IoT, a significant [Industry 4.0](https://www.ibm.com/topics/industry-4-0) player, contains sensors and devices connected to the internet to display real-time updates and data on specific machinery and devices, which is handy for manufacturing. Some key benefits include energy management, predictive maintenance and bottleneck detection. * **Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT):** A subset of IoT, IIoT leverages internet sensors through multiple industrial businesses and solutions. * **Predictive Maintenance:** Another hot one among the manufacturing industry trends is predictive maintenance. It implements IoT and other technology types — such as oil analysis, vibration analysis, acoustic monitoring, infrared thermography and more – to ensure normal operations. * **Artificial Intelligence (AI):** AI can automate processes, locate hazards and more. If AI exists in everyday products like Alexa, Siri, Uber and other industries like [accounting](https://www.selecthub.com/enterprise-resource-planning/accounting/accounting-automation/), why wouldn’t it help manufacturers? * **Machine Learning:** Another branch of AI, machine learning, consists of formulas that study and learn from information over time. Netflix and Hulu are some examples of machine learning. As you select and watch various shows and movies, it will recommend similar movies or shows within a particular genre. * **Augmented Reality (AR):** AR implements an enhanced version of the real world via visual components, sounds or stimulants for the senses. You can perform life-like training or detect factory floor hazards. Nintendo’s Pokèmon GO app and Microsoft HoloLens are just a few examples of AR. * **Virtual Reality (VR):** The [virtual reality society (VRS)](https://www.vrs.org.uk/virtual-reality/what-is-virtual-reality.html) defines VR as a 3D computer-generated atmosphere in which a person can interact with, investigate and maneuver objects or carry out numerous actions. It’s interesting to know that a tool intended for video gaming could grow into a tool to serve one of the world’s major work industries. * **Data Mining and Big Data:** Data mining and big data help you stay on top of KPIs and data associated with productivity, client satisfaction, supply chains, machinery and other factors. ## Manufacturing Process Types There are several processes manufacturers consider when they craft products. Some companies may implement more than one. These strategies include: * **Repetitive:** As the name implies, this practice creates the same product repeatedly 24/7 to meet production rates and is altered as necessary to align with customers’ needs. * **Job Shop:** Job shops focus on a specific area and build particular products in small amounts. They implement turning, milling, drilling, roughing and other machining techniques to craft products with different details and shapes. * **Discrete:** Manufacturers leverage discrete manufacturing techniques for big jobs. They create separate parts in different local or global plants and combine them to make the final product in one location. Computers, cameras and cars are a few examples of discrete manufacturing products. You can take apart products and sell or replace parts easily. * **Process:** [Process manufacturing](https://www.selecthub.com/manufacturing/process-manufacturing/), unlike discrete, creates products in one location. They transform raw materials via heating, cooling, chemicals or other forms of conversions to create goods like food, beverages, lotions, and more. You can’t take apart these products, typically following recipes or formulas. * **Continuous:** A subset of process manufacturing, this practice resembles repetitive but deals with raw ingredients like gasses, liquids, slurries and more. * **3D Printing:** Produce parts and models much more swiftly than waiting to receive them from other facilities. You also reduce waste. ### Other Methodologies There are other techniques manufacturers leverage to fit their production needs. These supplemental processes include * Machining * Casting * Forming * Joining * Make-to-Order * Engineer-to-Order [Compare Top Manufacturing ERP Software Leaders](https://pmo.selecthub.com/manufacturing-erp-site-vers/) ## Next Steps Choose the manufacturing trends that best align with your business needs. It’s also critical to pick the appropriate manufacturing ERP system. To get the best system, check out our free [comparison guide](https://pmo.selecthub.com/manufacturing-erp-site-vers/) for the latest systems and an unbiased, apples-to-apples stack up of each system’s features, benefits and limitations. How have these or other manufacturing trends made an impact on your practices? Which trends do you think will take center stage in 2024? Let us know in the comments! ### Trending Topics #### [Manufacturing Management](https://www.selecthub.com/category/manufacturing/) [The Top 17 Manufacturing ERP Features & Requirements Checklist](https://www.selecthub.com/manufacturing/manufacturing-software-features-requirements/) [You’re here for a reason: your manufacturing operations are suffering. 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You’re frantically cross-referencing three different spreadsheets because Brian just… ](https://www.selecthub.com/manufacturing/features-requirements-production-planning-software/) [ ![Riya Jamble](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/cropped-Riya-Headshot_Meet-the-Team-96x96.jpg) Riya Jamble ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/riya-jamble/) Mar 04, 2026 Originally published in March 2019 and last updated in May 2026\. Contributions from Khaleel Hayes, Hunter Lowe, Lisa Anderson, Sam Gupta, Chuck Langenhop, and Chad Meeks. ## About the Contributors The following SelectHub team members and subject matter experts helped research, create, and review this content. [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) Written by [Khaleel Hayes](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) Technical Content Writer Khaleel Hayes is a Technical Content Writer for SelectHub, with over 4 years of experience crafting content for manufacturing, PLM, ERP and technology selection audiences. He's also a freelance writer in his spare time. His body of work includes poetry, short plays, feature articles and film reviews either self-published or in Denver publications. He graduated with a B.A. in Journalism and an English minor from Metropolitan State University of Denver in May 2018\. When not writing, he enjoys classic movies and music, tasty burgers, tasteful bookstores, and breathtaking art and photography. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/hunter-lowe/) Edited by [Hunter Lowe](https://www.selecthub.com/author/hunter-lowe/) Content Editor Hunter Lowe is a Content Editor, Writer and Market Analyst at SelectHub. His team covers categories that range from ERP and business intelligence to transportation and supply chain management. Hunter is an avid reader and Dungeons and Dragons addict who studied English and Creative Writing through college. In his free time, you'll likely find him devising new dungeons for his players to explore, checking out the latest video games, writing his next horror story or running around with his daughter. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/hunter-lowe/) [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/lisa-anderson/) Contributions by [Lisa Anderson](https://www.selecthub.com/author/lisa-anderson/) Manufacturing & Supply Chain Strategist [![Thought Leader Program Member](https://www.selecthub.com/display/images/thought_leader_std.svg)](https://www.selecthub.com/thought-leaders/) Lisa Anderson is the founder and president of LMA Consulting Group Inc., a consulting firm specializing in manufacturing strategies and supply chain transformation that optimizes customer experiences and initiates profitable, extendable business growth. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/lisa-anderson/) [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/sam-gupta/) Contributions by [Sam Gupta](https://www.selecthub.com/author/sam-gupta/) Expert Contributor [![Thought Leader Program Member](https://www.selecthub.com/display/images/thought_leader_std.svg)](https://www.selecthub.com/thought-leaders/) Sam Gupta has been a thought leader in the digital transformation space for almost 20 years, emphasizing financial systems and ERP. He is a principal consultant at ElevatIQ, a digital transformation consulting firm dedicated to business process automation, customer experience, ongoing enhancements and marketing automation. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/sam-gupta/) [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chuck-langenhop/) Contributions by [Chuck Langenhop](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chuck-langenhop/) Expert Contributor Chuck Langenhop is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Senior Director with CFO Advisory Services in Richardson, Texas. His experience includes financial planning & analysis, ERP selections and implementations, and M&A due diligence. He works with diverse industries, including discrete manufacturing, food processing, distribution, and construction. Chuck has presented at the Sage Software Summit and participated in web panels sponsored by CFO magazine and Infor on topics related to ERP selections, functionality trends, and project management. Chuck has been interviewed by Compliance Week, Network World, and ChannelPro Network. He holds an MBA from Rice University. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chuck-langenhop/) [ ](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chad-meeks/) Contributions by [Chad Meeks](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chad-meeks/) Expert Contributor Chad Meeks founded a SAAS start-up called VizmaPro to make all aspects of manufacturing visual to help small companies become more efficient. Meeks spent 20+ years working for small manufacturing companies. He spent his early twenties working in production for a small manufacturer while putting himself through college. He has great respect for those who work in manufacturing. In 2013, Meeks joined the Powerblanket team and helped them transition to a lean manufacturing organization. It was this experience that inspired the creation of VizmaPro. Aside from running VizmaPro, Meeks is a new product development manager, lean consultant, and, most importantly, a father. [See Full Bio](https://www.selecthub.com/author/chad-meeks/) Riya Jamble10 Best Production Planning Software for 2026 * ‹ * › ### Conversation (2) ![Avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/281d3616cf761f3582c0d76c23517846?s=32&d=mm&r=g) Write a response [Cancel reply](https://www.selecthub.com/manufacturing/manufacturing-trends/#respond) Your message Your name \* Your email \* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. * ![Avatar photo](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4e39a0609bb07e7c21e750ef36c7e03307ffa365e342b1d4911e8b2c4a3b9df3?s=96&d=mm&r=g) #### **Atin Rastogi** \- January 9, 2022 What are industries that must immediately implement these technologies in order to boost production and come out of Covid situation? **[Reply](#comment-109156)** [![Avatar photo](https://www.selecthub.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Khaleel-48x48.jpg)](https://www.selecthub.com/author/khaleel-hayes/) #### **Khaleel Hayes** \- January 10, 2022 Hello, Atin. Thanks for reading. These trends are suitable for almost any industry. But similar to evaluating manufacturing software, you have to sit down with your company executives/leaders to compile solid requirements and needs. These trends aren’t one-size-fits-all. You need to understand which trends best align with your goals/practices in order to thrive. **[Reply](#comment-109304)** **Tier 1:** Fully/moderately supported out-of-the-box allowing for quick and easy deployment. Fully or moderately supported out-of-the-box with industry-leading capabilities and is immediately available after installation without needing any add-ons, integrations, or custom development. **Tier 2:** Supported with workarounds or add-ons that may require additional costs. Not directly available in the software, but can be accomplished using other built-in features, workarounds, or add-ons/products from the vendor with or without any additional cost. **Tier 3:** Requires partner integrations or custom development that is often at an additional cost. Requires additional integrations, plugins, marketplace applications from a third-party vendor, or custom development using the APIs, libraries, extensions, and development framework supported by the software, with or without any additional cost. 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