ProduktionNRW – the Cluster for Mechanical and Plant Engineering in North Rhine-Westphalia

ProduktionNRW is the statewide cluster for mechanical engineering and production technology in North Rhine-Westphalia and is coordinated by VDMA NRW. As a central point of information, networking and orientation, the cluster supports companies in actively shaping transformation processes, responding to crises and securing their long-term competitiveness.

With around 200,000 employees, production technology and mechanical engineering form the largest industrial employer in the state. Strongly characterised by medium-sized companies, often owner-managed and with an export share of around 70 per cent, the sector is a key driver of innovation and growth in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Orientation in Times of Change

Economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and profound technological change are increasing the pressure on companies to adapt. At the same time, long-term future trends are fundamentally reshaping the framework conditions. The new cluster focus is based on the study “Growth Engine Mechanical Engineering NRW”, which identifies four key developments that are crucial for the future viability of the sector:

Digitalisation and Industry 4.0 – Data, software and digital skills are becoming key factors for efficiency, new business models and customer proximity.
Decarbonisation and sustainability – Energy and resource efficiency open up new markets and position mechanical engineering as an enabler of a climate-friendly industry.
Changing globalisation – International strategies, markets and supply chains need to be rethought and made more resilient.
Demographics and skilled labour – The shortage of skilled workers requires new qualifications, attractive working models and innovative forms of collaboration.

What ProduktionNRW Delivers

ProduktionNRW primarily supports small and medium-sized enterprises in assessing complex developments within their day-to-day operations and taking targeted action. The cluster:

prepares relevant technological, economic and political information in a practical way,
connects companies, research institutions and other stakeholders along the value chain,
highlights best practices, trends and solution approaches,
strengthens innovation capacity, resilience and competitiveness.

In doing so, ProduktionNRW addresses both long-term future topics and acute crises and new market requirements – ranging from digital transformation and sustainable production to new security- and defence-related application fields.

Objective of the Cluster

ProduktionNRW provides orientation, promotes cooperation and supports companies in not only managing transformation but actively shaping it – for a sustainable, digital and competitive industry in North Rhine-Westphalia.

Regional Networks as Partners

Team

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