Market development in drive technology
Insights from SEW Eurodrive at the SPS 2025 in Nuremberg
How is the market for drive technology developing and what trends are companies observing? As part of our series of short interviews on SPS, we asked Heiko Füller, Head of Market and Analysis at SEW-Eurodrive Germany, to give us an insight into current developments and challenges in the industry.
Which technologies do you focus on?
At SEW-Eurodrive, we focus on intelligent drive systems, automation solutions and digital services. Our aim is to increase efficiency and flexibility in production while optimizing the use of energy and resources. Future-oriented technologies such as condition monitoring, predictive maintenance and networked control systems play a central role in this.
Which industry trend is currently the most relevant for your company?
We see the strongest momentum in the digitalization and networking of machines as well as in sustainable production concepts. Data-based services and modular automation solutions are key to meeting the increasing demands for efficiency and transparency. At the same time, the integration of AI-supported processes and energy-efficient solutions is becoming increasingly important.
Where do you see the biggest challenges for your industry in the next two to three years?
The industry is facing complex challenges: A shortage of skilled workers, high energy costs and geopolitical uncertainties are putting a strain on competitiveness. Added to this is the pressure to consistently implement digitalization, while at the same time raw material and supply chain issues and increasing regulatory requirements must be overcome.
In your opinion, what would have to change politically or socially for the industry to grow more strongly again?
We need reliable framework conditions for the energy transition, a significant reduction in bureaucratic hurdles and greater support for innovation. Targeted training of skilled workers is also crucial in order to catch up with the technological backlog and secure the competitiveness of the industry in the long term.
And on a personal note: What is the highlight of SPS 2025 for you?
The highlight for me is once again the direct exchange with customers and partners about future-oriented automation solutions. SPS offers the perfect platform to present our latest innovations and discuss strategies for sustainable, digital and flexible industrial production.
Thank you very much for the interview.
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