To survive in today's globalized and highly complex market, engineering and manufacturing companies need to radically transform their supply chain structures. Competition from new players is squeezing profits; growth in emerging markets is dispersing demand; and increasing customer requirements for product customization is adding complexity to post-sale support and service.

It is becoming ever more important for manufacturers to increase supply chain flexibility and agility as long lead times are becoming a thing of the past. Serving emerging markets from established manufacturing locations is no longer the answer. By operating in each region manufacturers can meet demand for lower prices, fast delivery, excellent aftersales service and increased sustainability.