Industrial Production: Mr. Marhofer, which technologies do you focus on?

Michael Marhofer: As one of the pioneers in the field of Industry 4.0, we will be showcasing our solutions for the digitalization of the entire value chain in various application examples in line with the motto "From sensor to ERP". One of the central building blocks for this is our moneo platform. Due to our origins as a sensor manufacturer, various sensor technologies will also play a major role at our SPS stand this year.

Which industry trend is currently the most relevant for your company?

Michael Marhofer: The use of AI is certainly one of the most important trend topics at the moment. At ifm, AI systems are used in solutions at sensor level, but also in the moneo digitalization platform.

Where do you see the biggest challenges for your industry in the next two to three years?

Michael Marhofer: Our biggest challenges at the moment are certainly the changing global political situation and the associated uncertainties. An uncertain and changing trade policy of the major economic powers, changing supply chains, at the same time a profound change in processes through digitalization, a strong pressure to become more efficient while remaining innovative and generating further growth, even against new competitors, shows that the number of challenges has definitely increased significantly.

In your opinion, what would have to change politically or socially for the industry to grow more strongly again?

Michael Marhofer: Our industry is definitely growing, even if not as much as before. If we are talking about growth in Germany, then our society and politicians need to get back to honestly admitting the problems, addressing them and then solving them. We can no longer afford taboos and must tell people the truth and then say how we want to tackle the problems. This is still lacking in this country because people believe that this will lose them voters. I think in the end it's the other way around.

And on a personal note: What is the highlight of SPS 2025 for you?

Michael Marhofer: I particularly enjoy the personal contact at the major trade fairs. This applies not only to the many customers we will be welcoming to our stand, but also to our employees. The trade fair offers a good opportunity to meet many international colleagues from the ifm family in person.

Thank you very much for the interview.

The questions were asked by Melanie Steinbeck.