Innovation Abroad: What Europe’s Manufacturing Evolution Means for Australia
The past few months have been busy, with travel across Australia and Europe providing valuable perspective on how the manufacturing landscape is shifting. From the rise of automation to new opportunities in advanced materials, there’s a lot to be optimistic about as we enter a dynamic period of local and global growth.
The Local Market
There’s a renewed push for sovereignty in Australian manufacturing, reflected in growing demand for new machinery. We’re seeing particular momentum in the defence sector, where interest in CMS Advanced Materials solutions is strong.
Across the board, manufacturers are exploring how to modernise production — investing in technology that increases precision, speed, and self-sufficiency.
The Stone Industry
Automation is front and centre in the stone sector, with a notable shift toward integrated systems and reduced reliance on manual labour. Mistrello’s automated storage and handling solutions are becoming increasingly essential to efficient operations.
We’re also seeing greater urgency in machine orders and enquiries, a positive indicator that confidence in the market is steady and investment is returning.
Glass
The glass sector remains quieter at the moment. While there’s no clear explanation, some concern surrounds the importation of standard products from Asia, including panels and shower screens.
With limited glass processing now taking place domestically, the market remains heavily reliant on imports. It’s a reminder of the importance of supporting local innovation and technology partners who can strengthen supply chain resilience in Australia.
Advanced Materials & Plastics
This is one of the most exciting spaces to watch. Interest in the CMS Kreator, a hybrid 3D printing and milling solution, continues to grow, driven by the Advanced Manufacturing Research Facility (AMRF) and other industry innovators.
We’re also seeing strong engagement around the Roboticom SandRob, which is redefining surface finishing through automation and precision. The boating and marine sectors, in particular, are showing increasing appetite for robotic and CNC technologies that improve efficiency and quality.
The Year Ahead
As the year draws to a close, manufacturers are already planning for 2026 — allocating resources toward strategy, equipment, and logistics upgrades. With several government grants still available, it’s an opportune time to future-proof operations and invest in long-term capability.
We look forward to continuing these conversations and helping Australian businesses navigate the next wave of innovation.
Pierre Sullivan
Pierre Sullivan is a leading expert in CNC, robotics, and advanced manufacturing technology. His technical knowledge and industry relationships help Australian manufacturers innovate with confidence.
Get in touch
Looking for the right product for you, reach to our experts and let’s chat.
