The 2026 report on the state of smart manufacturing reveals how manufacturers are leveraging AI, strengthening their operations, and focusing on measurable outcomes.
MILWAUKEE, May 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK), a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, released the findings of the 11th annual “State of Smart Manufacturing Report.” This global study conducted among over 1,500 manufacturers in 17 countries shows a shift in focus in the sector: manufacturers are no longer questioning the need to adopt digital technologies but rather how to execute, deploy, and achieve measurable results.
This report marks a turning point for the industry as many manufacturers move from experimentation to a broader deployment of digital capabilities. Fewer companies are operating in pilot mode, with more actively using smart manufacturing technologies for their daily operations.
The study reveals that 90% of manufacturers now view digital transformation as essential to remain competitive, highlighting its evolution into a fundamental business requirement.
“In the sector as a whole, manufacturers are facing unprecedented complexity and pressure over the past decade,” said Blake Moret, CEO of Rockwell Automation. “What emerges from this year’s study are not just the challenges faced but also how leaders address them, making digital transformation a fundamental operational priority. Companies that achieve results are those that combine technology, people, and processes to turn information into better decisions, stronger performance, and increased resilience.”
Key conclusions from the “State of Smart Manufacturing 2026 Report” include manufacturers shifting from pilot phases to tangible applications: 59% of manufacturers actively use smart manufacturing technologies to optimize their operations, with only 18% still in a pilot phase, indicating a decline in the dominant phase of previous years.
The report also highlights that artificial intelligence is becoming a driver of competitive advantage, with one-third of operations currently augmented by AI, especially in functions like quality, cybersecurity, and process optimization. Manufacturers anticipate that over half of operations will be AI-supported by 2030, reinforcing AI’s role as a fundamental operational capability.
Operational intelligence is now a factor of competitive differentiation, as companies face challenges utilizing data effectively. The report shows that only 43% of collected data are used efficiently, emphasizing that execution, not data availability, hinders performance.
Cybersecurity is a operational reality for manufacturers, with nearly half experiencing at least one cyber incident in the past year. Secure and integrated IT/OT architectures are now essential for the large-scale deployment of AI and advanced automation.
Additionally, the report reveals that manufacturers are directing their transformation investments towards measurable outcomes: improving quality, reducing costs, lowering operational risks, and increasing overall yield rate. One-third of operating budgets remain dedicated to industrial technologies, indicating sustained and execution-focused investments.
The 2026 State of Smart Manufacturing Report builds on over a decade of global research to showcase capabilities shaping modern industrial operations, including intelligence, resilience, adaptability, and workforce transformation.
Methodology: This report, conducted by Sapio Research in association with Rockwell Automation, analyzed responses from 1,560 individuals in 17 major manufacturing countries, covering roles from management to leadership. The survey encompassed various sectors such as consumer goods, food, automotive, semiconductors, energy, life sciences, etc., providing a wide range of perspectives for manufacturing companies.
About Rockwell Automation: Rockwell Automation, Inc. (NYSE: ROK) is a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation. The company connects its talented workforce’s innovation with technology’s potential to expand the realm of possibilities for a more productive and sustainable world. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Rockwell Automation employs over 26,000 individuals serving clients in more than 100 countries (figures for fiscal year 2025). To discover how Rockwell Automation brings the “Connected Enterprise” solution to industrial companies, visit www.rockwellautomation.com.
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Context: – The report highlights the increasing importance of digital transformation in the manufacturing industry. – Rockwell Automation is a key player in industrial automation and digital transformation.
Fact Check: – The global study conducted by Rockwell Automation encompassed insights from over 1,500 manufacturers in 17 countries.
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