With COP26 taking place recently, the actions needed to mitigate climate change are now becoming a priority for world leaders. Now is therefore the time for companies to recognise that prioritising sustainable manufacturing operations will be critical to their future success and public reputation.

Image caption above: Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director, VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association).

The "Sheet Metal Fabrication Services - Global Market Trajectory and Analytics" report was recently added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's portfolio. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the global market for sheet metal fabrication services is estimated at US$ 14.8 billion in the year 2020, according to the report. It is projected to reach a revised size of US$ 17.2- billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR of 2.6% over the analysis period.

Along with the 8th Schweisstec international trade fair for joining technology, the 15th Blechexpo international trade fair for sheet metal working took place from 26-29 October 2021. As a key meeting point for the industry during a difficult year of COVID-19 disruption and lockdowns, the mood was upbeat as exhibitors and visitors were able to network face to face.

The global 3D printing metal market size is expected to reach US$ 2.36 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., expanding at a CAGR of 25.7% over the forecast period. Market growth is attributable to the cost-effectiveness of 3D printed parts, reduced lead times and the development of complex parts during production.

Robot orders in the second quarter of 2021 in North America were up by 67% over the same period in 2020, showing a return to pre-COVID 19 pandemic demand for automation as manufacturers and other North American companies return to business.