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Add to CartProgrammable Logic Controller (PLC) Market
By Type;
Hardware & Software [Large PLC, Nano PLC, Small PLC, Medium PLC and Others] and ServicesBy End Use Industry;
Food, Tobacco & Beverage, Automotive, Chemical & Petrochemical, Energy & Utilities, Pulp & Paper, Oil & Gas, Water & Wastewater Treatment, Pharmaceutical and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Overview
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market (USD Million)
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market was valued at USD 13,697.65 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 20,058.27 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.6%.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 5.6 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 5.6 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 13,697.65 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 20,058.27 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 394 |
Major Players
- Siemens AG
- Rockwell Automation, Inc.
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Schneider Electric SE
- ABB Ltd.
- Omron Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc.
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Bosch Rexroth AG
- General Electric Co.
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market is growing due to a strong rise in industrial automation and the shift toward smart manufacturing. Over 68% of factories are moving to automated control systems, placing PLCs at the center of efficiency improvements. Enhanced real-time control features and automation capabilities are generating vast opportunities for innovation and scalable growth across industrial sectors.
Technological Innovation Accelerating Demand
The integration of AI and IoT into PLC systems is transforming industrial processes, with more than 55% of control systems now including advanced PLC technology. These innovations support predictive operations, reduce failure rates, and improve system adaptability. The market is advancing through technological developments such as modular PLCs, sparking increased collaboration between automation firms and tech providers.
Positive Future Outlook and Growth Forecast
As 61% of industries look to upgrade their automation systems, the PLC market is positioned for long-term growth. The focus on real-time monitoring and remote automation is driving interest in cloud-integrated and edge-deployed PLCs. This trend points to a future outlook shaped by smart manufacturing ecosystems and progressive technological enhancements that redefine operational standards.
Opportunities Through Strategic Collaborations
With 49% of smart factories adopting intelligent PLC frameworks, there are increasing opportunities to enhance system reliability and performance. This has encouraged stronger collaboration between OEMs and software developers to create secure and future-ready PLC solutions. The momentum in innovation, backed by strategic growth plans and expansion strategies, is reinforcing the market's potential across all industrial sectors.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Key Takeaways
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Market Size & Growth The global PLC market was valued at approximately USD 11.7 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 31.4 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 10.4% during the forecast period. Source: Global Market Insights
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Regional Insights North America held a significant market share in 2024, driven by advanced industrial infrastructure and high adoption rates of automation technologies. The Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate, with a projected CAGR of 6.3% from 2025 to 2034. Source: Global Market Insights
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Product Segmentation Modular PLCs accounted for 42.1% of the market share in 2024, while soft PLC solutions are anticipated to grow at a 7.5% CAGR through 2030. Source: Mordor Intelligence
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End-User Industries The manufacturing sector led the market with a 32% share in 2024, followed by the automotive industry, which is expected to grow at a 9.2% CAGR through 2030. Source: Mordor Intelligence
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Technological Trends Advancements in PLC technology include enhanced processing power, improved communication protocols, and integration with IoT and AI, enabling real-time data processing and remote monitoring. Source: Market Research Future
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Market Drivers Key factors driving market growth include the increasing demand for automation across industries, the rise of Industry 4.0 initiatives, and the need for efficient and reliable control systems. Source: Market Research Future
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Challenges High initial investment costs, cybersecurity concerns, and the need for skilled personnel to operate and maintain PLC systems pose challenges to market expansion. Source: Market Research Future
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Key Players Major companies in the PLC market include Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, Mitsubishi Electric, and Omron Corporation, focusing on innovation and expanding their product portfolios. Source: Market Research Future
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Recent Developments
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In February 2023, Rockwell Automation introduced the Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 5480 controller, combining PLC functionality with Windows-based computing for improved industrial automation. This integration streamlines machine control and data processing, enabling faster decision-making and optimized performance across connected manufacturing environments.
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In September 2021, Mitsubishi Electric unveiled the MELSEC iQ-R series PLC, featuring enhanced security functions and superior processing speed to advance industrial automation. The system is designed to boost manufacturing productivity through faster response times, improved data handling, and robust protection against cyber threats.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market has been segmented by Type, End Use Industry and Geography. This structure clarifies how platform scale, service intensity, and vertical adoption patterns shape controller selection, integration strategies, and lifecycle economics. We discuss key drivers including digitalization, safety compliance, and retrofit activity, as well as challenges like skills gaps, cybersecurity hardening, and supply-chain resilience that influence partnerships and future outlook.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, Segmentation by Type
The Type axis covers discrete controller platforms and associated services that enable automation across factory, utility, and process environments. Vendors differentiate through deterministic control, network interoperability, and development toolchains, while users balance TCO, scalability, and migration from legacy systems. Expansion is supported by open standards, edge connectivity, and analytics-ready diagnostics that enhance uptime and speed deployment.
Hardware & Software
The Hardware & Software category spans controller CPUs, I/O modules, communication cards, and programming environments that define performance ceilings, cybersecurity posture, and maintainability. Buyers evaluate compute headroom, motion capability, and protocol support (e.g., EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus/TCP) to future-proof assets. Toolchain usability, libraries, and virtualization options accelerate commissioning while lowering engineering hours across multi-line rollouts.
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Large PLC
Large PLCs serve complex plants with high I/O counts, redundancy, and stringent availability needs. They support hot-swap modules, high-speed backplanes, and advanced diagnostics for mission-critical operations. Typical use cases include integrated safety, batch management, and coordinated drive control in multi-cell architectures.
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Nano PLC
Nano PLCs target compact machines and OEM panels where footprint, cost, and quick deployment matter most. Built-in I/O and simplified programming streamline repeatable designs. Their role is expanding with smart sensors, IIoT gateways, and small autonomous subsystems at the edge.
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Small PLC
Small PLCs balance flexibility and price for single machines or small lines, offering modular I/O, basic motion, and HMI connectivity. They enable rapid changeovers and recipe control for frequent product variants. Users favor seamless scaling to midrange families to protect software investments.
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Medium PLC
Medium PLCs support coordinated motion, richer networking, and distributed I/O across multiple stations. They are common in automotive, packaging, and utilities where cycle time and deterministic response are critical. Lifecycle plans emphasize phased migration, virtual commissioning, and advanced diagnostics.
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Others
“Others” includes safety PLCs, soft PLCs, and specialized form factors optimized for harsh environments or functional safety. They integrate tightly with drives, robots, and SCADA, enabling unified toolchains. Adoption is driven by modular safety zones, cybersecure design, and standards convergence.
Services
The Services segment encompasses consulting, programming, migration, and life-cycle support that reduce project risk and improve asset performance. Offerings span audits, network hardening, and 24/7 remote support aligned to OEM and end-user needs. Outcome-based models, training academies, and managed spares programs strengthen resilience and accelerate digital transformation.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, Segmentation by End Use Industry
The End Use Industry lens captures how operational requirements, regulatory frameworks, and production mixes shape PLC specifications and vendor ecosystems. Manufacturers align architectures to OEE targets, safety categories, and data integration with MES/ERP. Partnerships across OEMs, system integrators, and MRO providers support upgrades, brownfield retrofits, and global rollouts.
Food, Tobacco & Beverage
In Food, Tobacco & Beverage, PLCs enable hygienic automation, recipe control, and traceability with rapid changeovers. Wash-down hardware, integrated safety, and batching libraries are pivotal. Data capture for compliance and predictive maintenance enhances throughput while minimizing waste.
Automotive
Automotive lines rely on synchronized motion, robotics integration, and high availability across body, paint, and final assembly. PLCs coordinate scalable cells, conveyance, and end-of-line testing. Standardized code frameworks and digital twins shorten commissioning and support platform commonality.
Chemical & Petrochemical
Chemical & Petrochemical operations emphasize intrinsic safety, redundancy, and advanced diagnostics in hazardous areas. PLCs integrate with DCS, shutdown systems, and analyzers to manage complex recipes. Long lifecycle support, obsolescence planning, and cybersecurity hardening are central.
Energy & Utilities
For Energy & Utilities, PLCs manage substations, distributed assets, and microgrids with ruggedized I/O and time-sync. Protocol diversity and remote access enable efficient field operations. Condition monitoring and event analytics improve reliability and restoration speed.
Pulp & Paper
Pulp & Paper facilities demand coordinated drives, web tension control, and moisture regulation under continuous duty. PLCs offer robust PID, modular redundancy, and mill-wide diagnostics. Migration services and spare-part strategies protect uptime during rebuilds.
Oil & Gas
In Oil & Gas, PLCs operate remote pads, pipelines, and terminals with emphasis on telemetry, safety, and harsh-environment reliability. Edge compute and secure networking support autonomous operations. Standard templates and remote diagnostics reduce site visits and downtime.
Water & Wastewater Treatment
Water & Wastewater Treatment utilities leverage PLCs for process control, pumping, and SCADA integration across distributed networks. Energy optimization and alarm management enhance service continuity. Open protocols and secure remote access simplify expansion and compliance reporting.
Pharmaceutical
Pharmaceutical plants prioritize GxP compliance, electronic records, and quality by design. PLCs enable aseptic control, serialization, and environmental monitoring. Libraries for batch control, audit readiness, and validated change management streamline inspections.
Others
“Others” covers mining, textiles, building materials, and discrete OEM machinery that require tailored PLC footprints. Focus areas include energy management, modular cells, and local service coverage. Scalable licensing and cloud-enabled diagnostics improve responsiveness and lifecycle value.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America benefits from robust brownfield upgrades, high adoption of open industrial Ethernet, and strong system integrator networks. Priority use cases include cybersecurity modernization, modular cells, and predictive maintenance. Vendor strategies emphasize local inventory, certified training, and lifecycle services that compress downtime.
Europe
Europe emphasizes energy efficiency, functional safety, and interoperability across multi-vendor estates. Users advance Industry 4.0 roadmaps with edge analytics and standardized data models. Partnerships focus on retrofit toolkits, IEC-aligned libraries, and sustainability reporting that ties control data to enterprise KPIs.
Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific landscape combines large new-build capacity with fast-growing OEM exports and electronics manufacturing. Demand favors scalable platforms, local language support, and rapid commissioning to meet short lead times. Collaboration with OEMs and contract manufacturers accelerates replication of best-practice templates across multi-country plants.
Middle East & Africa
Middle East & Africa deployments center on oil & gas, desalination, and utilities, requiring ruggedized hardware and remote operations. Strategies highlight secure connectivity, long-distance diagnostics, and training to build local capabilities. Project success depends on resilience planning and vendor-managed spares to ensure continuity.
Latin America
Latin America adoption is supported by process industries, mining, and food & beverage clusters seeking reliable automation. Buyers value competitive TCO, localization of service, and migration paths from legacy controllers. Public–private programs and workforce upskilling help reduce commissioning risk and sustain performance.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity
Drivers
- Increasing adoption of automation technologies
- Growth of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0
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Expansion of key industries-The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) market has been experiencing substantial growth, driven primarily by the expansion of key industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. In manufacturing, the increasing demand for automation to enhance productivity and efficiency has led to a higher adoption of PLCs. These controllers are pivotal in managing complex machinery and ensuring seamless operations, which is crucial for maintaining competitiveness in a market. Additionally, the trend towards Industry 4.0, which emphasizes smart manufacturing and digitalization, has further accelerated the integration of PLCs in manufacturing processes.
The automotive industry is another significant contributor to the PLC market's expansion. As automakers strive to meet the growing demand for electric and autonomous vehicles, the need for advanced automation solutions has become more pronounced. PLCs play a critical role in the assembly lines of these high-tech vehicles, ensuring precision and reliability. Moreover, the push for higher production rates and the necessity to maintain stringent quality standards are driving automotive manufacturers to invest heavily in PLC technologies. This sector's continuous innovation and adaptation to new technologies are expected to sustain the growth of the PLC market.
In the energy sector, the shift towards renewable energy sources and the modernization of power grids are key factors propelling the demand for PLCs. As renewable energy installations, such as wind and solar farms, require sophisticated control systems to optimize performance and ensure stability, PLCs have become essential components. Furthermore, the integration of smart grids, which rely on automated control and monitoring systems to enhance energy distribution and consumption efficiency, has bolstered the adoption of PLCs. This sector's commitment to sustainability and efficiency is likely to drive further expansion of the PLC market in the coming years.
Restraints
- High initial costs
- Complexity in integrating PLC systems
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Need for skilled personnel to manage-The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) market is witnessing significant growth driven by advancements in industrial automation and the need for efficient manufacturing processes across various industries. PLCs play a crucial role in automating industrial processes by controlling machinery and processes in manufacturing plants, refineries, and other industrial facilities. As industries increasingly adopt automation to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs, the demand for skilled personnel capable of managing PLCs has surged.
Skilled PLC professionals are essential for ensuring the efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of PLC-based systems. They are proficient in programming PLCs using ladder logic, function block diagrams, or structured text, depending on the application. These professionals not only configure PLCs to perform specific tasks but also monitor their performance to ensure seamless operation. Their expertise in integrating PLCs with other industrial control systems, such as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition), helps in creating robust automation solutions that optimize production processes.
With the advent of Industry 4.0 technologies, such as IoT (Internet of Things) and cloud computing, PLCs are evolving to support more complex and interconnected systems. Skilled personnel are therefore required not only to operate PLCs but also to leverage their capabilities in creating smart factories and predictive maintenance solutions. As industries continue to embrace digital transformation, the demand for competent PLC engineers and technicians is expected to grow, highlighting the importance of training programs and educational initiatives focused on PLC technology and automation.
Opportunities
- Technological advancements
- Rising trend of modular PLCs
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Development of smart cities-The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) market has witnessed significant evolution with the advent of smart city initiatives worldwide. Smart cities integrate various IoT devices and sensors to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and citizen welfare through advanced automation and data-driven decision-making. PLCs play a crucial role in this ecosystem by providing robust automation solutions that manage and control critical infrastructure such as water supply, energy distribution, transportation systems, and public safety.
One of the key drivers propelling PLC adoption in smart cities is their ability to handle complex control tasks reliably and efficiently. PLCs excel in environments requiring real-time monitoring and control, ensuring seamless operation of interconnected systems. As smart cities continue to expand, the demand for PLCs equipped with advanced communication protocols and cybersecurity features grows, enabling secure and reliable data exchange across diverse networks.
PLCs contribute to the scalability of smart city infrastructure by supporting modular and scalable designs. This flexibility allows city planners and operators to expand and adapt their automation systems as the city evolves and new technologies emerge. With advancements in cloud computing and edge computing, PLCs are increasingly integrated with AI and machine learning capabilities, further enhancing their role in optimizing city operations and improving the overall quality of life for urban residents. Thus, the PLC market in the context of smart cities is poised for continuous growth and innovation, driven by the ongoing digital transformation of urban environments worldwide.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market is increasingly competitive, with nearly 60% of the share held by leading automation and industrial control companies. Firms are adopting strategies that include partnerships, targeted merger activities, and cross-industry collaboration. Continuous innovation in control systems and connectivity solutions is fueling steady growth across manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure applications.
Market Structure and Concentration
Around 58% of the market is consolidated under top-tier companies, while smaller providers contribute to specialized applications. Industry strategies emphasize vertical integration and enhanced supply chain efficiency. Strong collaboration with system integrators and distributors supports growth, while focused expansion into digital automation strengthens the competitive structure of the sector.
Brand and Channel Strategies
Nearly 55% of sales are driven by direct industrial networks and channel distributors. Companies implement strategies such as co-branding, digital partnerships, and localized service collaboration. Emphasis on innovation in marketing and after-sales support improves brand recognition, enabling sustainable growth across both developed and emerging industrial automation markets.
Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
More than 59% of R&D spending is directed toward technological advancements in IoT-enabled PLCs, cloud integration, and predictive maintenance systems. Companies rely on collaboration with technology firms and academic research to accelerate innovation. These strategies foster long-term growth, driving competitiveness in smart factories and next-generation industrial automation solutions.
Regional Momentum and Expansion
Approximately 57% of demand originates from Asia-Pacific and Europe, driven by robust industrialization and digital manufacturing. North America shows steady growth through advanced partnerships in energy and automotive sectors. Regional strategies emphasize localized expansion and strong collaboration, ensuring resilient supply chains and broader adoption of automation technologies.
Future Outlook
The future outlook indicates that nearly 56% of upcoming growth will be shaped by smart manufacturing, digital twins, and AI-driven PLC systems. Market leaders will depend on strategies such as expansion, R&D collaboration, and ecosystem partnerships. With accelerating technological advancements, the PLC sector is positioned for strong competitiveness and long-term evolution.
Key players in Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market include:
- Siemens AG
- Rockwell Automation Inc. (Allen-Bradley)
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Schneider Electric SE
- ABB Ltd.
- Omron Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc.
- Panasonic Corporation
- Hitachi Ltd.
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Robert Bosch GmbH
- General Electric Company (GE)
- Delta Electronics, Inc.
- Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG
- FANUC Corporation
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use Industry
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing adoption of automation technologies
- Growth of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0
- Expansion of key industries
- Restraints
- High initial costs
- Complexity in integrating PLC systems
- Need for skilled personnel to manage
- Opportunities
- Technological advancements
- Rising trend of modular PLCs
- Development of smart cities
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Hardware & Software
- Large PLC
- Nano PLC
- Small PLC
- Medium PLC
- Others
- Services
- Hardware & Software
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, By End Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Food, Tobacco & Beverage
- Automotive
- Chemical & Petrochemical
- Energy & Utilities
- Pulp & Paper
- Oil & Gas
- Water & Wastewater Treatment
- Pharmaceutical
- Others
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Siemens AG
- Rockwell Automation Inc. (Allen-Bradley)
- Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
- Schneider Electric SE
- ABB Ltd.
- Omron Corporation
- Honeywell International Inc.
- Panasonic Corporation
- Hitachi Ltd.
- Emerson Electric Co.
- Robert Bosch GmbH
- General Electric Company (GE)
- Delta Electronics, Inc.
- Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG
- FANUC Corporation
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market