RSM and the manufacturing industry
The manufacturing industry transforms raw materials and components into finished goods through a range of production processes, spanning discrete and process manufacturing as well as advanced, technology-enabled operations.
Manufacturers are navigating sustained disruption across the manufacturing industry as cost pressures, labor constraints, supply chain volatility and evolving regulatory expectations reshape how organizations operate. At the same time, advances in automation, data and digital tools are changing how manufacturers manage operations, customers and risk.
RSM works with companies across the manufacturing industry to turn complexity into opportunity. Our professionals combine industry knowledge with practical insight to help manufacturers strengthen operations, improve financial performance and position their businesses for long-term growth.
4,900+
Manufacturing clients served by RSM across North America
4,300+
RSM professionals serving the manufacturing industry
Related sector
Manufacturing industry trends
Manufacturing leaders need to understand the biggest issues and trends shaping the industry if they want to stay competitive and adaptable. Fast-moving technology—including automation, artificial intelligence, and smarter factories and products—is changing how things get done, so having a clear plan for using data is more important than ever. As interconnectedness increases, so does the risk of cyberattacks, which means companies also must be proactive about protecting sensitive operations and data.
Here are the top five trends RSM has identified for the manufacturing industry in 2026:
Smarter manufacturing and products, enabled by AI
Machines, assembly lines, smart sensors, robots and other devices generate enormous amounts of industrial data that manufacturers are increasingly using to shape strategic business decisions.
The continuing urgency of cybersecurity
While advanced technologies are streamlining many aspects of traditional manufacturing, they are also creating more opportunities for cybercriminals to target manufacturers.
Reimagining global supply chains
Companies prioritizing digitizing their supply chains will be more resilient and better positioned to respond to future shifts in supply and demand.
The battle for manufacturing talent
As manufacturers grapple with technology’s increasing role throughout their organizations, the impact on their workforce will be significant.
The economic environment and the cost of capital
The elevated cost of capital makes financing new projects or expansions more expensive and investment decisions more difficult for manufacturers.
Middle market manufacturing industry outlook
RSM’s The Real Economy: Industry Outlook for manufacturing provides insights into the major trends shaping the U.S. manufacturing sector throughout the year. In recent editions, our senior analysts have examined how manufacturing for advanced industries is reshaping supply chains, the increasing complexity of middle market manufacturing companies, auto manufacturing trends and the logistics landscape.
RSM’s industry outlook highlights actionable strategies and solutions to help manufacturing businesses navigate these challenges and remain competitive.
Manufacturing industry services and solutions
RSM provides integrated services tailored to the needs of the manufacturing industry, helping organizations address operational, financial and regulatory challenges across the business lifecycle. Our approach is grounded in practical insight and informed by deep experience serving middle market manufacturers.
We support manufacturers as they manage growth, improve performance and respond to change through coordinated assurance, tax and consulting services. Our teams work closely with leadership to align strategy, operations and compliance in a rapidly evolving environment.
Industry-focused audit and assurance services that support transparency, compliance and stakeholder confidence
Tax planning and compliance services designed to address complex domestic and international manufacturing considerations
Advisory support to improve operational performance, resilience and cost management
Modernization initiatives that enable data-driven, scalable growth for manufacturing companies
Enterprise risk management, regulatory compliance and internal controls tailored to manufacturing environments
Frequently asked questions
AI is helping manufacturers improve demand forecasting, predictive maintenance and quality control while automating routine planning and back-office work. The real value comes from pairing AI with clean data and clear use cases. RSM can help manufacturers identify AI integration opportunities, assess data readiness and scale solutions responsibly.
Strong data ecosystems connect the shop floor, supply chains and finance data into a single, trusted view. This requires solid governance, integration and clear ownership, supported by analytics that inform daily decisions. RSM can help manufacturers with data architecture, governance models and reporting that align with business priorities.
Manufacturing supply chain resilience improves when companies diversify suppliers, increase visibility beyond Tier 1 and embed risk signals into planning. Scenario modelling and inventory segmentation also help manufacturers balance cost and continuity. RSM can help assess supply chain risk, model trade-offs and build more agile planning processes.
Cyberthreats now target operational technology, suppliers and remote access, not just IT systems. Manufacturers should focus on asset visibility, network segmentation and tested response plans. RSM can help evaluate cybersecurity risks and align security controls with operational realities.
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