4th Annual Edition
2026 ECI Trend Report:
Manufacturing
What are the Mfg Trends Shaping Success in 2026?
For job shops, discrete, and batch manufacturers, 2026 will be a turning point in the manufacturing industry.
- Labor shortages
- Cyber threats
- Supply chain shifts
- The rules of manufacturing are changing...
How are you taking real steps to modernize your operations and overcome practical challenges that are holding you back?
We've listened to hundreds of customer conversations and analyzed industry benchmarks to deliver our 2026 ECI Trend Report: Manufacturing, created specifically to highlight the trends for manufacturers who want simple, practical ways to plan for 2026 and beyond.
What's inside:
- The digital shift without budget: Why 92% of manufacturers see smart manufacturing as key to survival and how you can do it without a massive IT budget.
- Aging workforce challenges: One in four workers is over 55. Learn how technology can help you bridge the skills gap before your experts retire.
- Cybersecurity realities for SMBs: 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses. Discover how to protect your shop without hiring a security expert.
- Practical AI without the hype: See how shops like yours are using AI right now to save time and improve quoting accuracy.
How your peers are staying ahead with industry specific ERP
“We used to run on whiteboards and gut feelings. Now, we have real visibility. It's the difference between guessing and knowing.”
“ERP Software helped us capture the tribal knowledge of our senior staff before they retired. We aren't just surviving the labor shortage; we're growing through it.”
Manufacturing Trend Report FAQs
What is the 2026 ECI Trend Report?
It is a guide created by ECI Software Solutions to help manufacturers understand key trends, challenges, and opportunities the industry is facing in 2026. The report offers practical tips, real data, and step-by-step advice for staying competitive.
Is the 2026 Manufacturing Trend Report really free?
YES! Our goal is to help all small to medium sized businesses flourish. We hope you will return to us as your industry expert!
Why do I need to provide my information?
Is the advice in the report relevant outside the United States?
Yes. The recommendations are designed to be useful for manufacturers worldwide, with a focus on universal challenges and solutions.
If you have more questions, please reach out. We are here to help you get the most from your business, this year and beyond.
Get Your Manufacturing Roadmap to 2026
Download Now! Prepare for success, stay ahead of the competition, and start building a more resilient business today.