Methodology: Every two weeks we collect most relevant posts on LinkedIn for selected topics and create an overall summary only based on these posts. If you´re interested in the single posts behind, you can find them here: https://linktr.ee/thomasallgeyer. Have a great read!
If you prefer listening, check out our podcast summarizing the most relevant insights from Smart Manufacturing CW 45/ 46:
Strategy and Reindustrialization
Investments in advanced manufacturing are repeatedly linked to closing skills gaps, otherwise the current industrial revival risks stalling
Several posts criticise Industry 4.0 for being more narrative than reality, calling for operational execution, contextualized data, and real value extraction on the shop floor
Examples from Tesla, Saudi industrial programs, and innovation rankings illustrate how regions compete to anchor high value manufacturing and innovation capacity locally
Interoperability and ecosystem level thinking emerge as core levers for long term competitiveness, not isolated digital pilots
AI and Data
Digital twins and AI for CNC and operational twins in Erlangen plants show AI delivering smarter, more sustainable and transparent processes
New AI factories and hybrid architectures in biopharma and steel demonstrate sector specific AI infrastructure focused on throughput and process optimisation
AI in manufacturing is described as moving from descriptive analytics to proactive scheduling and agentic systems that propose and execute actions
No code computer vision tools and embodied intelligence platforms lower barriers for AI deployment directly on lines and equipment
Automation and Robotics
Robotics discussions span the future of the field, with technology enablers, new business models and global competition shaping the next generation of solutions
Dark factories in automotive using ABB robots and touchless scheduling illustrate how far full scale automation has progressed in real environments
No code robotics funding and new robot cell technologies in Europe point to a push for flexible, scalable automation accessible beyond specialist programmers
Innovations from inspection robots to lean rotating devices and advanced metal manufacturing underline that physical automation technology still drives major productivity gains
Platforms and IIoT
Integrating PLM, MES and ERP is highlighted as foundational for end to end transformation, better batch management and real time coordination across plants
SAP S.Factory and the latest SAP Digital Manufacturing releases position the vendor as a core platform for smart, sustainable manufacturing journeys
IIoT deployments, 5G, open ecosystems and mobile ERP data are portrayed as key to unlocking real time insights rather than standalone connectivity projects
IT and OT convergence, ISA 95 based integration and secure edge architectures show that standardized, cyber resilient connectivity is now non negotiable
Ecosystems and Partnerships
Expanded partnerships between Siemens and Capgemini, as well as Schneider Electric and Roca, demonstrate how joint offerings accelerate industrial intelligence and global plant modernisation
SAP’s physical AI pilots and broader manufacturing collaborations signal an ecosystem strategy where platform plus partners becomes the default delivery model
NVIDIA and Eli Lilly’s Biopharma AI Factory, alongside new AI alliances and Honeywell’s production investments, show that cross industry partnerships are central to scaling innovation
Concerns around HiveMQ’s leadership shift underline that partner selection now has implications for European industrial data sovereignty and control
Energy and Circularity
Battery energy storage is framed as an enabler of lean manufacturing, stabilising energy supply and cutting waste in production systems
Remanufacturing concepts and advanced metal manufacturing technologies point to circular models that conserve resources while maintaining performance and cost efficiency
Site visits and awards for Siemens and Schneider Electric facilities highlight how best in class plants link Industry 4.0 with sustainability and inclusive employment
Precision agriculture equipment, autonomous machines and digital energy systems show smart manufacturing principles spreading into agritech and broader energy intensive sectors
People and Leadership
Multiple posts warn that reindustrialization and advanced technology investment will fail without sustained workforce upskilling and reskilling
Leadership profiles for Industry 4.0 stress data literacy, adaptability and the ability to lead transformation programs rather than traditional command and control styles
Empowering frontline workers through digital tools, recognition and clear career paths is presented as critical for adoption, safety and retention
Employer overviews, veteran friendly facilities and biomanufacturing summit insights underline that talent brand and organisational agility have become strategic differentiators in manufacturing
Want to see the posts voices behind this summary?
This week’s roundup (CW 45/ 46) brings you the Best of LinkedIn on Smart Manufacturing:
→ 60 handpicked posts that cut through the noise
→ 32 fresh voices worth following
→ 1 deep dive you don’t want to miss