Your digital copy of DPA’s February issue awaits…

Forget cost cutting, 2026 is the year of growth, says our Editor in this month’s column. The manufacturing industry stands at a critical juncture. Faced with a raft of challenges – from rising labour and energy costs to constantly fluctuating global dynamics – the sector is nonetheless entering the year ahead with a feeling of optimism, resilience, and, most importantly, a determined spirit of innovation. So, what trends are set to shape 2026? Find out on page 4.

Next up is our cover story, which outlines the five key areas where manufacturers can help enhance and upskill their current workforce to cope with the challenges and exploit the essential benefits of reshoring (p. 20).

Finally, machine builders supplying customers in the EU will already be aware that the Machine Regulation comes into force in January 2027 and introduces requirements relating to cybersecurity. However, there is another new piece of European legislation that already has implications for machine builders and system integrators. This is Regulation (EU) 2023/2854, or the ‘Data Act’. Turn to page 16 to find out what it means for machine builders.

Other features to look out for include:
• Why lifelong learning is the ultimate innovation tool (p. 22)
• Beyond steel: Alternative spring materials for challenging environments (p. 6)
• Video of the Month: Simplifying machine vision – Live from SPS! (p. 29)
• Powering the next generation of agricultural machinery (p. 14)
• Why vibration damping is a growing strategic decision (p. 8)

Read the full issue here.