AI and Agility Top the List of Critical Trends that Will Define Manufacturing Competitiveness in 2026
Rhea-AI Summary
Xometry (NASDAQ:XMTR), the AI-powered manufacturing marketplace, has released its first Manufacturing Outlook report highlighting critical trends for 2026. The report, based on research with executives across the U.S., U.K., and Europe, identifies four key trends:
Key findings include:
- 82% of executives consider AI a core growth driver, with half reporting significant ROI
- 74% of executives are pursuing reshoring initiatives
- 54% of executives cite increasing quality demands
- 76% of manufacturers plan price increases in 2026
The report emphasizes the importance of AI adoption, operational agility, meeting rising customer expectations, and implementing market-driven pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness.
Positive
- 82% of executives report AI as a core growth driver with significant ROI
- Strong focus on operational agility through reshoring and digital workflows
- Strategic shift towards market-driven pricing and supplier diversification
Negative
- 76% of manufacturers planning price increases in 2026
- Increasing cost pressures and operational challenges
- Rising customer demands for quality and faster delivery adding pressure on manufacturers
News Market Reaction
On the day this news was published, XMTR gained 4.25%, reflecting a moderate positive market reaction. This price movement added approximately $101M to the company's valuation, bringing the market cap to $2.47B at that time.
Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.
Xometry unveils its inaugural global Manufacturing Outlook, highlighting key trends and strategies for manufacturers
NORTH BETHESDA, Md., Sept. 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xometry, Inc. (NASDAQ:XMTR), the global AI-powered marketplace connecting buyers with suppliers of manufacturing services, unveiled its inaugural Manufacturing Outlook report, a forward-looking analysis of the forces shaping the manufacturing industry for 2026.
Drawing on proprietary research with manufacturing executives across the U.S., U.K. and Europe, along with insights from Xometry and external subject matter experts, the Manufacturing Outlook provides a global perspective on strategies and capabilities that will define success in the year ahead. It is designed as a resource for decision-makers across the manufacturing industry, offering practical insights to help them navigate rising expectations, accelerating technology, and persistent cost pressures.
The report identifies four trends that will shape global manufacturing in 2026:
- AI as a Competitive Necessity –
82% of executives view AI as a core growth driver, with nearly half already reporting significant ROI. AI has moved beyond the hype to become a business-critical tool for manufacturing, and adoption is expanding into critical areas such as supply chain, procurement and quality control—areas that will set the pace for industry innovation. - Agility as the New Currency –
74% of executives are reshoring or planning to reshore operations, underscoring the need for resilient digital workflows. The most successful companies will be those that proactively architect systems for speed, resilience and adaptability. Integrating digital workflows and strengthening supplier networks will help manufacturers reduce overhead, move faster and empower teams to focus on high-value tasks. - Rising Customer Expectations –
54% of executives cite higher quality demands, with faster delivery and greater transparency also among the most striking shifts in customer demands. In response, manufacturers are embracing market-driven pricing strategies and forming strategic partnerships that extend beyond traditional cost, quality and speed considerations. - Sourcing for Stability – With
76% planning price increases in 2026, manufacturers are rethinking their pricing models and supply chains to stay competitive. In response, there is a notable shift toward market-driven pricing emerging. Instead of rigid formulas, many companies are embracing new strategies including forming strategic partnerships and diversifying suppliers across regions.
“Manufacturers are under intense pressure to do more with less and to meet growing customer expectations, even as costs are rising and global disruptions persist,” said Randy Altschuler, CEO at Xometry. “This report reflects the conversations we’re having every day with manufacturers about the challenges and opportunities ahead. The Manufacturing Outlook is intended to serve as a barometer for where the industry is headed and how companies can prepare.”
Download the Report
The 2026 Manufacturing Outlook is available now, with insights tailored for the United States and European markets.
Methodology
All data points are sourced from Xometry, Thomas, and a joint survey conducted by Xometry and Zogby Strategies. The survey was conducted in August 2025 and had a total of 300 respondents.
About Xometry
Xometry’s (NASDAQ: XMTR) AI-powered marketplace, popular Thomasnet® industrial sourcing platform and suite of cloud-based services are rapidly digitizing the manufacturing industry. Xometry provides manufacturers the critical resources they need to grow their business and streamlines the procurement process for buyers through real-time pricing and lead time data. Learn more at xometry.com and xometry.eu.
Media Contact
Lauran Cacciatori
VP Communications
773-610-0806
lauran.cacciatori@xometry.com
Investor Contact
Shawn Milne
VP Investor Relations
240-335-8132
shawn.milne@xometry.com
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f8a721e8-8191-4e5e-a4f9-a203068816e1
FAQ
What are the main trends identified in Xometry's 2026 Manufacturing Outlook report?
How many manufacturers are planning price increases according to Xometry's 2026 outlook?
What percentage of manufacturing executives are considering reshoring according to XMTR's report?
How important is AI in manufacturing according to Xometry's 2026 outlook?
What methodology did Xometry use for their 2026 Manufacturing Outlook report?
