Electronic manufacturing services (EMS) are essential for modern electronics production and are the backbone of many industries. With the new EMS Pavilion, the PCB, EMS & Components Marketplace, and a ZVEI panel discussion, electronica 2024 will have a clear focus in Munich from November 12 to 15. The world’s leading trade fair for electronics will show how EMS service providers are shaping future electronics production through innovations and sustainability strategies.
EMS offers comprehensive services ranging from the development to the production of complex electronic components for industries such as automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial automation. According to the German Association of the Electronics and Digital Industry (ZVEI), the EMS sector generated over 12 billion euros in 2022 in Germany, Austria and Switzerland alone. It employs more than 50,000 people, is of major economic importance, and acts as a job engine. Fortune Business Insights even estimates the global EMS market at USD 573.75 billion in 2024, and forecasts growth to USD 1,017.85 billion by 2032.
Technological innovations and their significance
Thanks to the integration of Industry 4.0 technologies, EMS services are experiencing a true revolution. Companies in the EMS sector are being transformed from mere component producers into active partners in product development in many key industries. The use of IoT, AI and big data enables automated, networked production with more efficient processes and increased flexibility. As a result, EMS providers can respond better to rapidly changing customer requirements and market conditions.
Advanced manufacturing techniques, such as advanced production methods with 3D printing and robotics, enable more accurate and efficient production. These technologies simplify the manufacture of customized products and enable rapid adjustment to market changes and specific customer requirements. In prototype production, they offer the necessary flexibility to quickly test and implement new designs.
Sustainability as a key factor
The growing importance of sustainability in the manufacturing industry is also evident in the EMS sector. Production processes are becoming increasingly environmentally friendly, saving raw materials and reducing the carbon footprint. In addition to the use of sustainable materials and efficient use of resources, modern recycling processes and a focus on the circular economy reduce the industry’s ecological footprint. And that also pays off economically through lower operating costs.
Future-proof through smart supply chains, customer centricity, and local production
Like many internationally networked industries, EMS companies must also respond to global economic change and, in particular, disrupted supply chains. To optimize supply chains, forecast fluctuations in demand, and plan resources more efficiently, they rely on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning, for example. At the same time, the industry must also make strategic and long-term decisions, such as setting up local production facilities to reduce dependence on global supply chains. These strategies guarantee maximum flexibility and resilience, and make EMS service providers reliable partners in a dynamic industry.
electronica 2024: meeting place for knowledge transfer and networking in the EMS industry
All this shows that it has never been more important for the EMS industry to not only network within its own sector, but to also discuss challenges and innovations with its international customers. With presentations and discussions, the PCB, EMS & Components Marketplace at electronica 2024 offers a unique platform for exchanging information on current trends and solutions as well as the latest developments in the EMS industry.
A special highlight at the forum will be the ZVEI panel discussion at 10:30 a.m. on November 13 in Hall A1: Industry experts and decision-makers will discuss how European competitiveness in the high-tech sector can be secured, and what contribution EMS can make to building a resilient microelectronics ecosystem.
For the first time at electronica 2024, the EMS Pavilion offers small and medium-sized companies the opportunity to present their products and services as part of a joint stand. With 18 new exhibitors, the pavilion was fully booked within a very time. In addition, visitors to Halls A1, B1 and C6 will have the opportunity to find out about the latest technologies and trends in the EMS industry from other renowned companies in the sector, such as BMK, Cicor, Deltec, Lacroix, Prettl, SERO, SVI Austria, TQ and Zollner, to network and exchange information on current developments and best practices.