AI drives manufacturing transformation: Nearly three-quarters of leaders predict biggest productivity boom in a century

Göppingen, Germany – April 2, 2025 – TeamViewer, a global leader in digital workplace solutions, unveiled The AI Opportunity in Manufacturing Report today at Hannover Messe, highlighting AI’s transformative potential in the sector. As AI adoption accelerates, 71% of manufacturing decision-makers predict it will drive the largest productivity boom in a century. Employees are already benefiting from AI’s ability to automate routine tasks, saving an average of 10 hours per month and enabling them to focus on higher-value activities.

Adoption and maturity
AI use in manufacturing has surged, driven by global challenges like labour shortages and supply chain disruptions. With 78% of manufacturing leaders now using AI weekly—up from 46% last year—AI is increasingly integral to daily operations. However, as adoption grows, so do perceptions of maturity and confidence. 72% of respondents consider their organizations’ AI adoption to be mature, yet only 28% of manufacturing leaders identify as AI experts, highlighting the need for continued education and skill development.

Manufacturers are primarily using AI for customer support automation (28%), data analysis (23%), and supply chain optimization (19%), while more advanced applications like forecasting and decision-making continue to gain traction. “Young workers, with their digital-native mindset, are leading AI adoption and helping to integrate the technology into manufacturing’s legacy systems,” said Mei Dent, Chief Product and Technology Officer at TeamViewer.

Advancements for businesses and individuals
AI is driving significant improvements for both businesses and workers in manufacturing. 77% of decision-makers view AI as critical for improving efficiency, automating routine tasks to reduce downtime and freeing up employees for more strategic work. In fact, 78% report that AI has enabled them to focus on high-level decision-making. Beyond boosting efficiency, AI is improving product quality and reducing defects (33% compared to a 20% average across industries), which is crucial in precision-driven manufacturing.

AI also empowers workers, with 74% saying AI enhances their ability to analyse data and make decisions, 72% crediting it for helping them acquire new skills, and 71% viewing it as essential for career growth. Financially, 71% of manufacturers expect AI to boost revenue in the next year, with a projected growth of 188%.

Barriers to wider adoption
While AI offers transformative potential for manufacturing, several challenges slow its adoption. Security concerns lead the list, with 76% citing AI-related data risks—higher than the cross-industry average. However, other significant barriers include a lack of AI education (42%), high implementation costs (30%), and limited financial support for scaling AI initiatives. Despite these challenges, manufacturers remain optimistic, with 81% expecting increased AI investment in the next year. Addressing these obstacles through targeted education, strategic financial planning, and clear communication on AI’s long-term value will be essential for broader adoption.

Invest in AI, access the future
However, AI investment is essential for manufacturing to realise its potential. Education is a priority, as 96% believe further training is needed to mitigate risks, and 74% confirm plans for additional programmes. Leadership is also crucial, with 68% supporting the appointment of a Chief AI Officer to oversee strategies and ensure responsible adoption.

“AI has already proven its ability to transform businesses, but we’ve only scratched the surface of its potential,” Dent continues. “By focusing on collaboration, education, and responsible adoption, manufacturers can harness AI to achieve remarkable results while fostering innovation.”

Download The AI Opportunity in Manufacturing report here.

Notes to Editors
In the AI Opportunity Report, TeamViewer uncovers the attitudes of 1,400 information technology, business, and operational technology decision-makers in the UK, France, Germany, Australia, Singapore, and the US toward artificial intelligence.

The sub report – AI Opportunity in Manufacturing focuses on 105 professionals in the manufacturing sector.