By Mr. Shailendra Kulkarni, Plant Head, REHAU India
The manufacturing industry in 2024 (as we conclude) stands at an inflection point, driven by innovation, sustainability, and an ever-increasing demand for customised solutions. Through rapid technological advancements and a growing emphasis on greener practices, the sector has experienced transformative changes that have redefined its operational blueprint. Let’s hop into the top five trends that are reshaping manufacturing today.
1. The Era of High-Speed, High-Volume Production
Modern manufacturing has given way for high-speed, high-volume production technologies to meet the growing demand for precision and efficiency. Advanced extrusion technologies, developed through decades of expertise, are setting new benchmarks in performance and reliability. Plants equipped with cutting-edge machinery are now capable of delivering unparalleled output — some even boasting capacities of over 30 crore meters per annum.
Such robust systems enhance productivity and also ensure consistent quality, paving the way for manufacturers to scale operations while maintaining excellence. This has proven instrumental in meeting the demands of both domestic and international markets, positioning Indian manufacturing as a competitive player on the global stage.
2. Customisation: The New Industry Norm
As consumer preferences continue to evolve overtime, the demand for personalised solutions has skyrocketed. Manufacturers are moving beyond standard products, imbibing customisation as a core offering. The challenge, however, lies in producing high-variety, low-volume orders without compromising on turnaround times or quality. Moreover, the industry is seeing new verticals in edgebanding with innovative edgebands like the veneer ones, as well as v-twins — with an inclination towards different colour edge bands.
To address this, companies are adopting offline décor printing technologies that allow for faster execution of bespoke designs. Such advancements not merely improve service levels but also cater to the growing premium market segment, where customized projects hold significant value. This shift highlights how manufacturers are aligning themselves with changing consumer expectations to remain relevant in an otherwise competitive sector.
3. Sustainability at the Core of Manufacturing
Sustainability is no longer a choice. Infact, it’s a necessity. Manufacturers are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint, carefully selecting materials and technologies that align with global green initiatives. A noticeable trend is the adoption of eco-friendly polymers such as ABS and uPVC especially in edge bands and other surface related solutions, owing to the fact that they are free from harmful substances like lead and phthalates.
Beyond materials, energy efficiency has become a key focus. Solar energy and smart energy monitoring systems are helping reduce CO2 emissions, demonstrating a strong emphasis to environmental stewardship. Recognitions like sustainability awards are further validating these efforts, proving that green manufacturing is not just good for the planet but also for business.
4. Technology-Driven Competitiveness
In the age of digital transformation, technology is the backbone of manufacturing competitiveness. Recent acquisitions and collaborations have enabled manufacturers to expand their portfolios and enhance their technical capabilities. For instance, the integration of advanced twin-screw extruder technology has upscaled the production of high-performance materials, delivering superior finishes and mechanical characteristics. Gloss units as low as 5 all the way to over 95 and above, can duly be achieved at the facilities of leading players — all through innovation.
Another game-changing innovation is laser-edge technology, which facilitates seamless, zero-joint finishes. This breakthrough empowers furniture makers to access premium and export markets, bridging the gap between local craftsmanship and global standards. By leveraging these advancements, manufacturers are not only enhancing their own offerings but also enabling their partners to upscale their capabilities.
5. ‘Local for Local’ and the Global Opportunity
One of the most impactful trends shaping the industry is the emphasis on building a robust local ecosystem. Manufacturers are investing in developing partnerships with local suppliers and technology providers, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. This approach focuses on improving efficiency and competitiveness within India while simultaneously creating opportunities for exports. Companies are producing high end furniture solutions in India that can be manually applied on the edges of the furniture to increase longevity and prevent furniture from damage. Moreover, these highly economical edge bands have become an automatic choice in India when it comes to wooden binding and the replacement of melamine.
Collaborating closely with local partners allows manufacturers to maintain stringent quality standards, while also imbibing an environment of shared growth. Over time, this strategy is poised to create a ripple effect, strengthening India’s position as a global manufacturing hub. Through combining local expertise with global requirements, the industry is creating a sustainable framework for long-term success.
End Note
These transformative changes in manufacturing are much more than meeting industry demands. Instead, they’re about driving progress that enhances lives. Right from adopting sustainable practices, including enhanced technology, or imbibing a culture of collaboration, the sector is evolving to deliver solutions that are innovative, efficient, and responsible.
As manufacturing continues to grow in complexity and scale, the focus will remain on balancing innovation with sustainability. Companies operating in this space are up for engineering products — and when we look at the impact, they’re engineering a future that’s better for businesses, consumers, and the planet alike. This journey of transformation is far from over. With the pace of change accelerating, 2024 has proven that the manufacturing industry is more resilient and future-ready than ever before. The road ahead is one of opportunities, and the industry is well-equipped to seize them.