The strongest momentum is coming from the US, where manufacturers are expanding local production and investing in applications ranging from data centre infrastructure to automotive components. India is growing rapidly, while investment decisions are beginning to move forward again in Europe. Medical remains a stable market for ENGEL worldwide. Even in packaging, where changing regulations make planning more difficult, customers continue to invest in technologies that improve energy efficiency and the economics of production. These different developments point to a common priority: customers want solutions that deliver a clear return in day-to-day operation.
“We are seeing an upturn, but not yet a broad turnaround,” says Stefan Engleder, CEO of the ENGEL Group. “The structural changes in our industry remain, and we are adapting to them. We believe engineering expertise has real economic value. At Fakuma 2026 in Friedrichshafen we will show how our innovations help customers improve their productivity and stay at the forefront of their markets.”
Americas: US investment drives demand
Demand is rising most strongly in the US, where customers are moving ahead with projects postponed in previous years. The expansion of domestic manufacturing is also creating both greenfield and brownfield opportunities.
In technical moulding, large, highly automated systems are needed for data centre infrastructure, including housings and components for piping, cooling and electrical systems. Water infrastructure offers further opportunities, from drinking-water supply to wastewater and stormwater management. Manufacturers of household products for major retail chains are also expanding their North American operations.
In automotive, new vehicle programmes and delayed projects are supporting investment. Some US packaging customers are adding production capacity, too.
Europe: investment decisions are moving forward again
Sentiment in Europe has improved in recent months, with enquiries once again leading to initial orders. Small and medium-sized companies in particular are replacing older machines and exploring production concepts that complement their existing equipment. Demand also remains resilient in applications for household products, construction, water infrastructure and logistics.
The picture varies considerably by industry. Medical applications remain at a high level, while the European automotive market continues to lag. Financial pressure on suppliers and costcutting programmes at vehicle manufacturers are holding back investment. At the same time, ENGEL sees global potential for in-mould coating of exterior automotive components as an alternative to conventional painting.
In packaging, evolving requirements under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation are making investment decisions harder to plan. Nevertheless, processors are choosing all-electric systems to combine high output with lower energy use. The new emotion 380, which ENGEL is presenting at Fakuma, uses around 30 per cent less energy than comparable hybrid or hydraulic solutions.
ENGEL is continuing to strengthen its European presence. Its manufacturing site in Kikinda, Serbia, is intended to reinforce the company’s European value chain. Its partnership with French injection moulding machine manufacturer Billion also gives customers a clear route for future investment: Billion will continue to service its installed machines, while ENGEL will be the recommended supplier for new ones.
