Irish Manufacturing Research report highlights growing adoption of AI, automation and digitalisation, with manufacturers increasingly focused on turning innovation into commercial results.
Irish manufacturers are moving beyond testing advanced technologies and are increasingly embedding them into day-to-day operations.
That is according to Irish Manufacturing Research (IMR), which says the next challenge will be ensuring businesses have the digital foundations needed to unlock value from AI and automation.
“The debate about whether AI and automation matter is over. Manufacturers can see the opportunity”
IMR’s 2025 End of Year Report reveals that the organisation engaged with 679 industry organisations through 704 engagements across all 26 counties. Based on 31 client impact statements, the work is projected to generate almost €18 million in economic value, including €13 million in additional revenue and €5 million in cost savings.
The same impact statements identified 32 jobs created or safeguarded and projected emissions reductions of 197 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.
Going beyond the pilot phase
According to IMR, manufacturers are increasingly focused on moving technologies beyond pilot projects and into operational environments where they can deliver measurable business outcomes.
“The debate about whether AI and automation matter is over. Manufacturers can see the opportunity,” said Barry Kennedy, CEO of Irish Manufacturing Research.
“The question now is whether they have the digital infrastructure, skills and implementation capability to turn that opportunity into real commercial value. Technology alone will not transform a factory. The data, systems and people around it must also be ready.”
The report points to growing recognition across the sector that successful adoption of advanced technologies depends on more than investment in software, robotics or AI tools. Companies are increasingly assessing the readiness of their data systems, workforce skills and operational processes as they prepare for the next phase of digital transformation.
Skills development is emerging as a key priority. During 2025, IMR delivered 811 training days, with 363 participants from 107 companies taking part in programmes designed to strengthen manufacturing capabilities and support technology adoption.
Kennedy said manufacturers that successfully implement new technologies will be better positioned to compete internationally, improve productivity and strengthen resilience.
“Ireland has a real opportunity to lead in advanced manufacturing, but speed alone is not enough. Companies need the right foundations and the right support to make technology work within their operations.
“The manufacturers that get this right will be better positioned to improve productivity, build resilience and compete successfully in increasingly complex global markets.”
Image at top: Melanie Horkan, HR Manager; Maurice O’Connell, Chief Operating Officer; Gina Horan, Chief Financial Officer; and Barry Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer, Irish Manufacturing Research
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