This concept envisages relocating regional production sites closer to the sales markets. Vehicles and their components are manufactured where they are sold and used. This minimises transport routes, improves delivery reliability and strengthens proximity to customers. At the same time, it optimises the resilience of the supply chain, as regional plants can react more quickly to local market requirements. As one of the most important global suppliers of automation technology to the automation industry, how is Festo dealing with this?
We asked our product specialist Johannes Berwanger for an interview.
Relocating to regional production sites has numerous advantages.
"The 'local for local' concept is a key building block for achieving sustainability goals in the automotive industry. By shortening transport routes and thus reducing CO₂ emissions, we are helping to significantly reduce our customers' environmental footprints," says Johannes Berwanger.
"The political framework is also developing in this direction. In the US, for example, we see the CHIPS Act as a clear incentive to strengthen local production. Our expertise allows us to support our customers in successfully making this change.
The advantages of local production are enormous. Shorter supply chains are a faster and more reliable way for enable our customers to bring their products to market.This is a competitive advantage, especially in the automotive industry, where time is an important factor. By producing locally, it is also possible to react quickly to changing customer requirements or seasonal fluctuations. Thanks to our knowledge of variant production, we can help our customers to optimise utilisation of system capacity. Festo products, which are also available in a wide range of variants, help to make this a reality.
The production of different variants has been a core part of the Festo product range for years and is a key factor for our customers. The ability to freely configure solutions is extremely important too, as it allows our customers to meet their specific needs, whether these arelegal and market-specific specifications or technical requirements. However, combining this flexibility with maximum efficiency remains a constant challenge. This is precisely where our strength lies. We not only offer the technical solutions, but also the experience and commitment to successfully implement them for the benefit of our customers."
The "local for local"' principle is much more than a short-term reaction to current crises. It represents a strategic step that will significantly improve the efficiency, flexibility and sustainability of automotive production. At a time when consumers expect customised products and short delivery times, this approach provides the basis for long-term success.
The future of vehicle construction is local – close to the customer, resource-saving and flexible. Companiesthat commit to this strategy not only secure competitive advantages, but also actively contribute to the transformation of the industry.