Exploring the Latest Manufacturing Marketing Trends

Exploring the Latest Manufacturing Marketing Trends

Jennelle McGrath Jennelle McGrath 4 min read Jun 11, 2024
Exploring Current Trends in Manufacturing Marketing
6:26

The digital age has launched a rapid departure from traditional marketing methods for businesses in nearly every industry.

Manufacturing marketing trends are no exception, as many top companies now rely on digital innovations to stay ahead in an increasingly competitive industry.

But why worry about the latest marketing trends for manufacturers in the face of challenges like economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions? Because choosing the right strategies for your company can make all the difference when it comes to increasing brand awareness, lead generation, and overall marketing ROI.

Understanding the Shift in Consumer Behavior

Don’t get us wrong, there’s nothing wrong with a solid trade show marketing strategy. But you may be headed for trouble if your entire marketing strategy begins and ends there. To develop a comprehensive approach, consider partnering with marketing strategy firms. But you may be headed for trouble if your entire marketing strategy begins and ends there.

Today, more manufacturers than ever before are embracing digital marketing as a means of keeping their sales funnels stocked with new leads. But exactly why has digitization proven among the most groundbreaking trends in the manufacturing industry? For several key reasons:

  • Today’s B2B clients expect online access to the information they need to even consider making a purchase decision.
  • Digital marketing trends in manufacturing make it possible to target incredibly specific audiences, which can result in impressive savings on ad spending.
  • Tracking marketing and manufacturing trends through analytics can provide valuable insights that have a direct impact on your bottom line.

Embracing Sustainable Practices in Manufacturing Marketing

Widespread support of sustainability is on the rise, as reflected by everything from consumer reports to the recent wave of legislation involving clean energy initiatives. The good news is that adopting a more planet-friendly approach can be great for both your reputation and your bottom line.

From a practical standpoint, sustainability can help your company reduce waste and increase efficiency. But it can also be a powerful way to attract B2B clients who share your company’s green values.

Check out the growing list of manufacturers who have participated in the EPA’s E3's Green Suppliers Network Assessment. Sustainable trends in manufacturing industry practices aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, so it’s definitely worth getting in on the ground floor.

Leveraging Technology for Competitive Advantage

Not so long ago, you might have assumed that words like “artificial intelligence” and “automation” would only be used to describe marketing strategies for robotics manufacturers. But today, manufacturers in a variety of different industries now use tools like automated email campaigns and AI chatbots to attract and engage leads.

Let’s take a look at some of the latest trends in manufacturing industry marketing and how you can use them to increase sales.

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). IIOT can revolutionize your factory floor by connecting machines and devices in real time. But the same technology can also be used to collect valuable insights into how customers interact with your products, highlight areas in need of improvement, or inform your next marketing campaign.

Data Analytics. If your factory uses analytics to collect IIoT data, then why not use the same technology to collect customer data that can optimize your next campaign?

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). Many manufacturers now use VR and AR for everything from training to remote maintenance. Consider passing this handy innovation on to your customers by allowing them to interact with your products in a virtual environment.

Engaging with the Growing Influence of Social Media

While social media may not be as high-tech as employing an IIoT system or creating a VR showroom, it’s no less important when it comes to winning new clients. With the right strategy, social media platforms can be lead generation goldmines.

Establishing a strong brand presence on social platforms like LinkedIn, YouTube, and even Twitter can go a long way toward increasing your company’s visibility. It can also open digital doors when it comes to direct outreach, community building, and earning trust.

Many social media platforms also offer their own powerful suite of targeted lead generation tools such as paid ads, business research, and data tracking. The right social listening strategies can also prove invaluable for collecting feedback that leads to customer-informed business decisions.

Last but not least, social media can keep you up to date on what’s happening in your industry. From the latest loyalty program trends to competitor updates, being in the know can prove incredibly useful.

Adapting to the Changing Landscape of Trade Shows and Events

While trade shows are still alive and well, they’ve changed a great deal over the past few years. If you plan to put in the time and energy it takes to attend an event, it’s worth getting up to date on the latest manufacturing industry trends.

Today, many manufacturers are integrating digital platforms into traditional live trade shows. These integrations can take several forms, depending on your goals. Here are several ideas that can help you get the best possible ROI out of your next appearance:

  • Utilize automated email campaigns and social media marketing to generate interest before (and even after) your event.
  • Consider attending virtual or hybrid events in addition to traditional live trade shows.
  • Incorporating VR/AR experiences, interactive demos, or gamified displays can be a great way to make your booth a lot more interesting!
  • Use personalization whenever possible. Whether it be through automated emails or landing pages, a little personalization can go a long way.

Conclusion

Manufacturing marketing trends are constantly evolving, introducing plenty of opportunities for the companies who grow along with them.  The good news is that partnering with a manufacturing marketing agency can help make life a lot easier for your sales and marketing teams, all while boosting your company’s bottom line.

FAQs

How can manufacturers effectively incorporate sustainability into their marketing strategies?

If your company has embraced sustainable efforts, don’t be shy about letting the world know! You might consider displaying any green certifications you’ve earned on your website or social media accounts, advocating for sustainable manufacturing processes, or even working with eco-friendly influencers.

What role does data analytics play in modern manufacturing marketing?

Data analytics measures the impact your campaigns are having on your target audience, allowing you to capitalize on any strengths and tighten up any weaknesses.

How can small and medium-sized manufacturers compete with larger companies in digital marketing efforts?

The beauty of modern day manufacturing marketing is that it allows you to focus on a very specific audience. Start by understanding what makes your company unique, whether it be a niche, sustainable practices, or industry expertise. Then highlight your strengths and expertise by generating high-quality content designed to offer your ideal customer as much helpful information as possible.

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