Small and medium-sized enterprises cannot simply relocate their production abroad – the importance of automation for SMEs

The automation of production processes is essential for SMEs to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging environment. Rising energy prices; a shortage of skilled workers and strict regulatory requirements make it necessary to use innovative technologies to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Dr Harald Lampey; Senior Partner at the ERA Group management consultancy; emphasises: "Small and medium-sized enterprises face the challenge of optimising their production processes in order to remain competitive in the long term. Automation is the decisive lever here."

The ERA Group has outlined the options available to companies for implementing automation solutions efficiently; quickly and cost-effectively in its white paper "The importance of automation for SMEs".

SMEs cannot simply relocate production abroad

By digitising production; companies can not only increase their efficiency; but also develop new business models. "Industry 4.0 offers immense opportunities for digitisation and automation; which we must exploit in order to remain internationally competitive;" says Carsten Husemeier; partner at the ERA Group. This is particularly important for SMEs; as they cannot relocate their production abroad like corporations or large companies.

Automation enhances jobs

However; implementing automation solutions is complex and requires careful planning. The ERA Group recommends a clearly structured approach that includes needs analysis; feasibility studies; design and implementation. "A systematic plan helps companies minimise risks and get the most out of their investments;" explains Dr Lampey. He also emphasises the importance of employee training: "Automation does not mean job losses; but rather the creation of new; more demanding tasks that require well-trained personnel."

Environmental benefits

In addition to the technical and economic advantages; automation also offers ecological opportunities. "By using renewable energies and sustainable production processes; we can not only reduce costs; but also contribute to climate protection;" explains Husemeier. Automation thus helps to overcome the shortage of skilled workers while improving the quality and efficiency of production. This makes it an indispensable tool for the future viability of medium-sized companies.

About the ERA Group

The ERA Group was founded in 1992 as Expense Reduction Analysts and specialises in the long-term improvement of the competitiveness of medium-sized companies; public sector institutions and non-profit organizations (NPOs). With more than 1;000 partners in over 60 countries; the ERA Group supports companies and organizations with implementation-oriented consulting services along the entire value chain. These include energy procurement and optimisation; packaging solutions; supply chain management; facility management; IT & digitalisation; raw materials procurement; HR & temporary staffing; marketing; business intelligence; production and process costs; sustainability and corporate finance.

In Germany; Austria and Switzerland; the ERA Group serves over 3;500 customers from manufacturing; retail; services and the public sector. For more information; visit www.eragroup.com