This year’s edition of ABISS once again confirmed how quickly the manufacturing tech landscape is evolving. While the event showcased familiar topics like cybersecurity and AI, it also highlighted a few interesting shifts in how companies approach digitalisation on the shop floor and beyond.
From the conversations at the booths to the themes of the presentations, a clear picture emerged: the industry is moving toward more secure, connected, and modular ecosystems, with a touch of reality about where digitalisation still has some ground to cover.
Here’s what stood out most to our team.
1. Cybersecurity Moves Higher Up the Agenda
Conversations around security have never been louder. Manufacturers are increasingly aware that a solid cybersecurity strategy is no longer optional. While no one likes to dwell on worst-case scenarios, recent ransomware cases, where production had to be paused entirely, are a clear reminder of what’s at stake.
What stood out at ABISS was how many solution providers now integrate security into their core offering. Rather than treating it as an add-on, it’s becoming part of the foundation. For many companies, protecting their production environment is now as essential as running it.
2. IT and OT Are No Longer Separate Worlds
Another striking trend was the stronger IT perspective on OT solutions. More presentations came from an IT angle, showing how the line between operational technology and information technology is fading.
This convergence is a sign of maturity in the industry: companies are moving toward more connected environments where data, processes, and infrastructure reinforce one another. This shift enables efficiency and creates the conditions for better decision-making and smarter use of resources. It also underlines the need for solutions that can bridge both worlds seamlessly.
3. AI Is Everywhere, Even If Not Dominating the Floor Yet
AI and AI agents were present in many conversations, but the number of AI-first vendors was still limited. Instead of dominating the show, AI appeared as a feature woven into broader solutions, quietly supporting quality control, planning, maintenance, and training.
This reflects a realistic adoption curve: AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore; it’s being used where it makes sense. Many manufacturers are clearly experimenting with it, but the focus has shifted from hype to practical implementation.
4. From One-Size-Fits-All to Best-of-Breed
Another clear shift was the way companies are assembling their tech stack. Instead of betting on a single platform to handle everything, more manufacturers are embracing best-of-breed solutions and selecting specialised tools that can be connected to build a flexible, powerful ecosystem.
This approach gives companies more control over their digital strategy. It allows them to adopt technologies at their own pace and adjust as their operations evolve, without being locked into rigid structures.
5. Even the Event Industry Has Some Catching Up to Do
Ironically, one of the most telling moments happened at the entrance: tickets had to be printed out before they could be scanned. A small but symbolic reminder that digitalisation is still a work in progress, even in spaces where technology is the main topic.
This little hiccup underscored an important point: no sector is fully digital yet. Progress happens step by step, layer by layer (and that’s okay).
A Familiar Conversation for Azumuta
Many of the themes at ABISS echoed what we see daily in our work with manufacturers. From cybersecurity concerns to the growing preference for best-of-breed setups, the conversations at the event reflected the same priorities we hear from production teams and digital leads.
At Azumuta, we’ve always believed that digitalisation works best when it’s flexible and integrated, by supporting existing processes instead of forcing companies into a single mold. Seeing these trends take shape across the industry is a strong sign that manufacturers are looking for practical, scalable solutions rather than one-size-fits-all promises.
Final Thoughts
ABISS 2025 made one thing clear: manufacturing is entering a new digital chapter where security, AI, IT/OT convergence, and modular ecosystems take center stage. And yes, even the event industry itself has a few digital steps to take.
The conversations throughout the event reflected a sector that’s learning to balance ambition with pragmatism. This maturity is exactly what’s needed to build a digital manufacturing future that’s both innovative and sustainable.
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