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The State of Industry 4.0: A Comparative Analysis of Global Leaders

As industries worldwide continue to embrace the digital age, the MHP's Industry 4.0 Barometer has provided a timely assessment of how different regions are adapting to the challenges of industrial digitalization. Conducted by MHP in collaboration with Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, the report showcases a clear and concerning trend: the United States and China are significantly surpassing Europe, particularly the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) and the UK.

Key Findings of the Barometer

The analysis involved feedback from 823 industrial companies across the US, China, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the UK. The report revealed that while the pace of digitalization is increasing globally, growth rates are not as vigorous as in previous years.

Tobias Hoffmeister, CEO of MHP Americas, remarked that this marks the seventh year of reporting on industry benchmarks, and since 2021, the focus has shifted to international comparisons. The results highlight poignant disparities in specific technological domains. For instance,
30% of companies in the DACH region lack plans to adopt digital mapping, compared to just 18% of US companies and a mere 5% in China. Such trends indicate a backward momentum for Europe in certain aspects of Industry 4.0 technologies.

Automation and Data Analysis Trends

The report underscores noticeable gaps in automation and data analysis capabilities among regions. Driverless transport systems (DTS) offer insight into this trend; around 45% of US companies have integrated these systems into their intralogistics, while the figure is even higher at 59% in China. Conversely, only 35% of DACH companies have embraced DTS.
Furthermore, the adoption of digital twins illustrates similar trends, with 67% of Chinese manufacturers utilizing this technology compared to 49% in the US and 41% in the DACH region.

Data-Driven Production: The Current Focus

In the 2025 study, one of the highlighted topics is data-driven production, which seems crucial for future competitiveness. Many companies recognize the value of data-driven insights, yet a significant number in the DACH area struggle to translate this data into actionable strategies.

A staggering 91% of US companies now treat data as a strategic asset, contrasted sharply by 78% in China and just 64% in the DACH region. The inability to leverage data effectively is a growing concern that could hinder innovation in Europe. Companies here must develop integrated data strategies that prioritize future technologies such as AI and digital twins.

The Path Forward

Reforming industrial practices to harness the full potential of digital tools is not merely an option; it’s imperative for remaining competitive on the global stage. The findings from MHP's Barometer signal a wake-up call for Europe to invest urgently in digital transformation and rethink their strategies.

As the gap widens between the leading nations and Europe, the urgency to innovate and adopt advanced technologies takes precedence. Outdated practices and hesitation in investment strategies will only lead to further decline in global competitiveness.

As industries brace for a more digital future, the stakes have never been higher. The need for coherent, progressive industrial strategies across Europe is essential to catch up with the rapid advancements being made in the US and China.

Our collective industrial future depends on our ability to adapt, innovate and invest in the technologies that define Industry 4.0.