Manufacturing

RSM and the manufacturing industry

The manufacturing industry transforms raw materials and components into finished goods through a range of production processes, spanning discrete and process manufacturing as well as advanced, technology-enabled operations.

Manufacturers are navigating sustained disruption across the manufacturing industry as cost pressures, labor constraints, supply chain volatility and evolving regulatory expectations reshape how organizations operate. At the same time, advances in automation, data and digital tools are changing how manufacturers manage operations, customers and risk.

RSM works with companies across the manufacturing industry to turn complexity into opportunity. Our professionals combine industry knowledge with practical insight to help manufacturers strengthen operations, improve financial performance and position their businesses for long-term growth.

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Manufacturing industry trends

Manufacturing leaders need to understand the biggest issues and trends shaping the industry if they want to stay competitive and adaptable. Fast-moving technology—including automation, artificial intelligence, and smarter factories and products—is changing how things get done, so having a clear plan for using data is more important than ever. As interconnectedness increases, so does the risk of cyberattacks, which means companies also must be proactive about protecting sensitive operations and data.

Here are the top five trends RSM has identified for the manufacturing industry in 2026:

Smarter manufacturing and products, enabled by AI

Machines, assembly lines, smart sensors, robots and other devices generate enormous amounts of industrial data that manufacturers are increasingly using to shape strategic business decisions.

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The continuing urgency of cybersecurity

While advanced technologies are streamlining many aspects of traditional manufacturing, they are also creating more opportunities for cybercriminals to target manufacturers.

Reimagining global supply chains

Companies prioritizing digitizing their supply chains will be more resilient and better positioned to respond to future shifts in supply and demand.

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The battle for manufacturing talent

As manufacturers grapple with technology’s increasing role throughout their organizations, the impact on their workforce will be significant.

The economic environment and the cost of capital

The elevated cost of capital makes financing new projects or expansions more expensive and investment decisions more difficult for manufacturers.

Middle market manufacturing industry outlook

RSM’s The Real Economy: Industry Outlook for manufacturing provides insights into the major trends shaping the U.S. manufacturing sector throughout the year. In recent editions, our senior analysts have examined how manufacturing for advanced industries is reshaping supply chains, the increasing complexity of middle market manufacturing companies, auto manufacturing trends and the logistics landscape.

RSM’s industry outlook highlights actionable strategies and solutions to help manufacturing businesses navigate these challenges and remain competitive.

Manufacturing industry services and solutions

RSM provides integrated services tailored to the needs of the manufacturing industry, helping organizations address operational, financial and regulatory challenges across the business lifecycle. Our approach is grounded in practical insight and informed by deep experience serving middle market manufacturers.

We support manufacturers as they manage growth, improve performance and respond to change through coordinated assurance, tax and consulting services. Our teams work closely with leadership to align strategy, operations and compliance in a rapidly evolving environment.

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