Rich DePoto, Business Development Manager, Uyemura

Will you be launching new products or services in 2025?
Yes, we will. In the first quarter of 2025, we will present a new generation of our globally unique, force- and path-controlled wire feeder, the EUTECT SWF.

We are also planning to present some new products at productonica in November 2025. We don't want to reveal any details yet, but they will revolve around further fully automated solutions for selective soldering. And, of course, AI could also play a role.

Is your company using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools?
Yes, we use AI tools in various areas. We are currently working on AI solutions that further optimize the selective soldering process and provide sustainable support for operators and quality managers. But there will be more information on this at productronica 2025.

Have supply chain shortages been resolved and are you able to hire skilled workers?
The situation on the procurement market has eased. On the other hand, finding and hiring specialist staff remains difficult in Germany. In the south, it is still very difficult to find good specialist staff at acceptable cost.

What is the outlook for your business in 2025?
I think it is very difficult to estimate exactly how the year 2025 will develop. The war in Ukraine and the crisis with Russia, a possible conflict between China and Taiwan and the new old US president are variables that are difficult to assess. However, there are market observers who see a little more momentum in the market from the second quarter onwards.

We are also optimistic and believe that we are well positioned in terms of our strategies. And sometimes the general economic situation is seen as worse than it actually is. We have set ourselves the goal of addressing other new sectors with our products and are targeting areas that are somewhat more crisis-resistant.

But it is also a fact that electronics manufacturers have to invest, otherwise the investment backlog will be too great and delivery times too long. There will be shifts in the EMS sector in Germany, and I expect to see adjustments there. And what about the machine manufacturers? I think that things will change again after the crisis. There will be a further boost, especially in terms of fully automated production solutions.