In 2025, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation are at the forefront of transformation in the manufacturing industry, according to a new survey of manufacturing chief financial officers (CFOs) by accounting firm BDO.
The 2025 Manufacturing CFO Outlook Survey found that advanced tools like agentic AI, edge AI, and digital twins are set to revolutionize manufacturing by enhancing productivity, optimizing decision-making, and increasing supply chain agility[6].
Key findings from the survey include:
- 32% of manufacturers are adopting or expanding AI for supply chain management
- 53% of CFOs expect their involvement in strategic AI discussions to increase over the next 12 months, up from 36% last year
- CFO leadership in integrating AI and analytics will be critical for improving decision-making, driving revenue, and resolving supply chain challenges
Maurice Liddell, BDO Principal and National Manufacturing Industry Group Digital Leader, states: ‘2025 is set to be a breakthrough year for focused AI investments. In addition to proprietary platforms, technologies such as agentic AI, edge AI and digital twins bring the potential to revolutionize manufacturing operations.'[6]
To succeed in this digital-first landscape, manufacturers must:
- Establish robust data foundations
- Align technology investments with business objectives
- Ensure workforce buy-in
Tailored, proprietary AI solutions will allow companies to fine-tune technology for specific applications, giving them a competitive advantage. Partnering with vendors offering secure, in-house AI platforms—such as ChatGPT hosted within Microsoft Azure—can further accelerate adoption while ensuring data security[6].
Workforce development remains vital as manufacturers expand domestically and address an aging workforce. Upskilling employees in AI and digital tools will be essential to maintain competitiveness[6].
This trend aligns with broader industry shifts towards digital transformation. A recent report by Forrester projects that global technology spending will rise to $4.9 trillion in 2025, a 5.6% year-on-year increase[4]. Key drivers of this growth include security, cloud computing, AI, software, data centers, and the expanding digital economy[4].
As manufacturers navigate this digital transformation, those that effectively balance growth, technological adoption, and operational efficiency will gain a lasting competitive edge in an increasingly digital global market.
References:
- https://financesonline.com/digital-marketing-trends/
- https://interface.media/blog/2025/02/25/the-strategic-shift-five-tech-trends-shaping-2025/
- https://mobidev.biz/blog/7-technology-trends-to-change-retail-industry
- https://www.i-scoop.eu/digital-transformation/technology-and-it-spending-2025/
- https://www.yourthoughtpartner.com/blog/change-management-communication
- https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/2025/02/25/ai-digital-transformation-manufacturing-cfo/
- https://www.dailyherald.com/20250321/nation-and-world-politics/democrats-new-digital-strategy-tops-trending-charts-but-also-draws-mockery-from-allies-and-foes/
- https://valasys.com/top-digital-transformation-trends-that-will-define-the-future-of-business/
- https://natlawreview.com/article/5-ways-estate-attorneys-can-bring-order-their-clients-digital-asset-chaos
- https://help.hootsuite.com/hc/en-us/articles/4403597090459-Create-engaging-and-effective-social-media-content
- https://www.simplilearn.com/top-technology-trends-and-jobs-article
- https://www.shrm.org/in/executive-network/insights/podcasts/thriving-in-times-of-change-3-power-questions
- https://www.cnet.com
- https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4698/15/4/75
