AI in operations: from promise to performance
The manufacturing industry is undergoing rapid transformation. Pressures from the green transition, shifting global production footprints, tighter regulations, workforce shortages, and rising costs are pushing companies to rethink how they operate. At the same time, digitalisation is accelerating – and AI is emerging as a critical enabler. From traditional machine learning to the latest advances in generative and agentic AI, these technologies are helping manufacturers optimise procurement, streamline production, enhance R&D, and build more resilient, efficient supply chains.
AI is no longer just a future bet – it’s already reshaping how manufacturers run their businesses. But how far along are they, really?
Based on insights from over 400 manufacturers across 31 countries, this PwC study explores where organisations stand on their AI journey, what value they’re realising, and what it takes to turn pilot success into lasting impact. The findings shed light on investment trends, expected returns, and implementation challenges.
Early results look promising – but what’s holding manufacturers back from unlocking AI’s full potential? And what can they learn from the frontrunners already scaling impact beyond pilots?
"AI has the power to revolutionise operations across the value chain – unlocking agility, foresight, and efficiency like never before. But in order to truly harness its potential, we must rise to the challenge of building strong foundations in data quality, scalability, and governance."
Wolfram KoesterPartner, Supply Chain & Operations, PwC SwitzerlandKey findings for Switzerland
Overall, the survey reveals a mixed picture: AI is gaining traction in operations, yet few have unlocked its full potential across the enterprise. In Switzerland, manufacturers are cautiously optimistic – but still at an early stage of their AI journey.
AI maturity is limited – with scaling as the next step.
In line with global results, Swiss businesses recognise the potential of AI, but only 7% have fully implemented AI across operations. While 13% report measurable financial benefits (versus 17% globally), the majority are still at the stage of testing and fine-tuning their approach.
Investments are growing – but carefully.
40% of Swiss participants (41% globally) have invested over USD 6 million in AI over the past five years – demonstrating both commitment and caution. One third plan to invest more than USD 6 million in the next three years, while over half intend to invest up to USD 5 million. Many are still focused on validating use cases and building internal confidence.
AI is seen as a long-term competitive necessity.
Change is inevitable, and businesses know it. About 40% of surveyed Swiss manufacturers believe AI will significantly change how they work and become a key differentiator by 2030 – aligning with global expectations.
Customer service and manufacturing lead AI use cases.
AI is being tested across departments, with higher activity in customer service, manufacturing, procurement, and sales and marketing. However, many companies struggle to measure the financial impact of their use cases – likely due to limited reporting capabilities or early-stage implementations.
Data quality remains the top barrier – but talent readiness is strong.
As in the global findings, data quality is the top implementation challenge in Switzerland, cited by 38% of participants compared to 42% globally. However, only 23% see a lack of AI knowledge as a barrier – suggesting that teams are already preparing for an AI-driven future.
Download the full report to see all Swiss and global results
The four AI acceleration principles
We have identified four core principles that are critical to getting the most value from AI. In our full discussion of these principles, we include examples of what AI Operations Champions are already doing to drive successful implementation of AI across their organisations.
Download the full report
https://pages.pwc.ch/view-form?id=701Vl00000uw8t1IAA&embed=true&lang=en
Contact us
Dr. Jens Neumann
Jon Chambers
Wolfram Koester