Move Forward, Not Backwards in 2025: A Manufacturing Tech Outlook

The manufacturing sector continues to face significant challenges, from labor shortages to macroeconomic pressures, creating an uncertain business environment. The growth of U.S. manufacturing presents mixed signals—while some domestic resurgence has occurred in response to global supply chain disruptions, other reports suggest that manufacturing is not fully returning home. U.S. election cycles further compound this uncertainty, as they often bring hesitancy for change and slow decision making when it comes to investment. However, now is not the time to hold back on the digital transformation progress the industry has achieved since the pandemic. The market is ripe for innovation and investment, and manufacturers should capitalize on the opportunities ahead, rather than sitting on the sidelines.

As we look toward 2025, several key trends are expected to shape the industry, presenting small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) with opportunities for growth and transformation.