During 24 – 25 November 2025, GPV hosted an event for both customers and suppliers in Munich, Germany. The event was dedicated to strengthening partnerships and sharing insights about where the EMS industry is heading. This year’s theme, “Navigating Global Markets”, brought together more than 300 industry participants for discussions on uncertainty, competitiveness, and the opportunities ahead.
CEO Bo Lybaek opened the event by addressing a reality we all recognise: while market normalisation may be emerging, high uncertainty remains. Economic shifts, geopolitical tension, and technology transitions continue to shape the global business environment. The message was clear: “We work in the world as it is — and we are here to help our customers grow their business”.
The EMS industry is evolving — fast
The EMS industry is moving from traditional assembly to more integrated, end-to-end offerings. Lifecycles are expanding, and customers increasingly need partners who can support design, box-build, system integration, and full lifecycle services.
At GPV, this journey is already well underway.
Today, more than 50% of our business involves advanced box-build manufacturing, enabling us to deliver highly complex, high-level assemblies for customers across multiple industries.
Although many still associate EMS primarily with PCB assembly, our capabilities extend beyond this — encompassing fully integrated solutions built on deep technology understanding and strong engineering expertise. This was also a key focus at the event, where we showcased examples of high-level assemblies to underline that GPV not only aspires to be a fully integrated technology partner — we already are well positioned in this space.
In a time of uncertainty and change, strong, transparent, and strategic partnerships are more important than ever. A win-win mindset across the supply chain is essential, and GPV’s expanded offering is designed to bring additional value, stability, and innovation to our customers.
The key drivers shaping the industry’s evolution include:
- Outsourcing and regionalisation
- Broader technical competencies
- Full lifecycle support
- Agility in responding to rapid technology shifts
- The need for scale to stay competitive
These forces are pushing EMS companies to strengthen capabilities, expand global footprints, and deliver more integrated solutions. GPV is already doing so — and will continue investing to stay competitive and relevant.
From EMS provider to fully integrated technology partner
A key part of the day focused on GPV’s strategic journey. Our ambition is to continue moving from traditional EMS into a fully integrated technology partner, offering:
- Design support
- High-level assemblies
- Automation-driven efficiency
- Full lifecycle services
- Strategic alignment with partners
This transformation is supported by our M.O.R.E. 28 Strategy and our global manufacturing footprint — enabling flexibility, resilience, and competitiveness in a multipolar world.
The conversations at “Let’s Talk 2025” confirmed a shared view: strategic partnerships are the key to future competitiveness.
Customers emphasised innovation, speed, and service reliability. Suppliers highlighted flexibility, cost competitiveness, and collaborative development. GPV’s focus is clear: Performance innovation, cost efficiency, resilience, and close customer centricity.
In a world where the next disruption is always ahead, resilient partnerships are what turn obstacles into progress.
Outlook 2026: Preparing for what is next
During the event, CBO Thomas Kaiser outlined several forces shaping the next 12–24 months:
- Energy transition
- Growth in data centres
- Accelerated automation
- Cybersecurity risks
- Reshoring and regionalisation initiatives
In response, we discussed practical ways to navigate this multi-polar world:
- Building end-to-end partnerships
- Leveraging shared intelligence
- Strengthening resilience
- Increasing agility and speed-to-market
“Let’s Talk 2025” once again underlined what drives our industry forward: collaboration, openness, and the collective ambition to grow together.
We extend our warmest thanks to all customers, suppliers, and guest speakers who joined us in Munich. Your engagement and insights are key to shaping tomorrow — together.
