International Metalworking News for Asia

The manufacturing industry is changing before our eyes. Driven by rapid globalisation, changes in customer expectations and the digitalisation of almost everything. Manufacturing has faced some big challenges and even bigger opportunities over the past few years. Metalworking technology is evolving. End users increasing demands carry more weight than ever. Not to mention competition coming from every direction and dimension. So how will the metalworking industry play out in 2016? Will it be the year of technology revolution making “Industry 4.0” a reality? Will it see the rise of robotics and automation into a new realm? Will 2016 be a year of action for manufacturers in Asia? We asked industry experts for their views. Find out more in this issue’s Outlook Report. Forward-thinking metalworking machine and tool builders, including software companies are looking for alternative ways to create and capture value. It is no longer just about selling the product, but about gaining a share of the value it generates in its use. Advances in metalworking technology and changes in marketplace expectations are making it possible for relatively small entrepreneurs to thrive in an industry where scale was once a virtual imperative. The growing popularity of “smart” products, for instance, has prompted some technology companies to make ventures into the manufacturing space, either by developing software to run the products, or by producing the machines and tools themselves. This issue of IMNA is packed with articles that can serve as platforms for you to be one step ahead of the game. Take the time to look for ways to drive efficiencies in your business and across the supply chain. Who knows some of these articles can help boost your company’s productivity and open the door to new growth opportunities. Got a topic, issue or technology you’d like to see addressed in IMNA magazine? Please let me know! Email me at kathryn@ringiertrade.com.