A European industrial equipment manufacturer faced intensifying competition from Asian competitors in traditional manufacturing. Through two complementary projects, developing new product concepts for existing capabilities and exploring digital transformation potential, we helped them discover their true competitive advantage. Using targeted innovation methods and prototyping sprints, we validated breakthrough concepts through to management implementation decisions. Most importantly, we helped them reframe their core competency: moving beyond commodity manufacturing where they couldn’t compete long term with Asian producers, to becoming specialists in identifying untapped automation opportunities and developing industrial-grade solutions for previously unautomated processes, positioning them ahead of the commoditization curve.
