The Future of Electronics Manufacturing: Reliability, Automation, and a Shifting European Landscape
Tampere, Finland is set to develop into a focal point for the European electronics industry on March 26, 2026, as Evertiq Expo brings together experts to discuss the critical trends shaping the sector. From challenging assumptions about component lifecycles to navigating a rapidly consolidating EMS market, the event highlights a period of significant change and opportunity.
Beyond Date Codes: Rethinking Semiconductor Reliability
For years, the electronics industry has operated under the assumption that semiconductor components have a limited lifespan dictated by their date codes. Ronny Nietzsche of Rochester Electronics is set to challenge this long-held belief, arguing that properly stored components can remain reliable well beyond their printed dates. This shift in perspective has significant implications for inventory management, cost savings, and reducing electronic waste.
Combating Obsolescence and Extending Product Lifecycles
The shrinking of product lifecycles and the inherent vulnerabilities of electronic components to degradation (corrosion, material breakdown) are driving a greater focus on lifecycle management. Gunter Mößinger from HTV Alter Technology will address the growing issue of semiconductor obsolescence, emphasizing the importance of effective storage and continuous lifecycle monitoring. This is particularly critical for industries like aerospace, defense, and medical technology, where extended product lifetimes are essential.
HTV Alter Technology experienced a cyberattack in September 2025, but has restored most systems and continues to investigate the incident.
The Rise of Agile Automation in EMS Factories
Traditional automation systems often struggle to adapt to the demands of high-mix, low-volume production. Piotr Owczarek from Fitech will explore how modular robotics can provide the agility needed to handle frequent changeovers and fluctuating customer demands. This approach allows EMS factories to quickly reconfigure processes and maintain throughput, offering a competitive advantage in a dynamic market.
Miniaturization and the Challenges of Fine-Line PCB Production
The relentless drive towards miniaturization in PCB design is pushing the boundaries of what’s technically possible. David Capeder of DYCONEX will examine the challenges associated with producing increasingly complex PCBs – higher layer counts, thinner materials, and tighter spacing. Overcoming these hurdles requires advanced technologies and innovative design approaches.
Agile Automation: Adapting to Shorter Product Cycles
Maik Schurrer, CEO of Pematech, will present strategies for implementing agile automation in manufacturing environments characterized by short product cycles and increasing product diversity. Successful implementation hinges on three key factors: agile project planning, powerful software with recipe management, and optimized set-up capabilities.
European EMS Consolidation and the Growing Importance of Defense
The European EMS industry is undergoing a period of consolidation, driven in part by the increasing demand from the defense sector. Riku Hynninen, CEO and Founder of Agame Oy, will provide an overview of recent developments among publicly listed European EMS companies, analyzing industry strategies, mergers, and acquisitions, and the impact of geopolitical shifts.
Investing in the Future: The Evertiq Scholarship
Recognizing the importance of nurturing young talent, Evertiq Expo Tampere will host the Evertiq Scholarship ceremony, celebrating outstanding diploma thesis work that demonstrates both technical excellence and the potential to contribute to the future of European electronics.
The Nordic EMS Advantage: Specialization over Scale
Dennis Dahlgren, Senior Editor at Evertiq, will conclude the program with a presentation on “The Nordic EMS advantage,” exploring how EMS and ODM providers in the Nordic region are positioning themselves in a rapidly changing market. The Nordic model emphasizes specialization rather than competing on scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is semiconductor obsolescence?
- Semiconductor obsolescence refers to the process where components become unavailable or unsupported due to changes in manufacturing, technology, or market demand.
- Why is lifecycle management important for electronic components?
- Lifecycle management ensures the long-term availability, reliability, and support of electronic components, particularly crucial for industries with extended product lifecycles.
- What are the benefits of modular robotics in EMS manufacturing?
- Modular robotics offers increased agility, allowing factories to quickly reconfigure processes and adapt to changing customer demands and product mixes.
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