Economic Barometer Q4 2024

Technology sector in motion: figures and trends from Q4 2024

The FHI Economic Barometer for the fourth quarter of 2024 provides insight into the most important trends, challenges and opportunities within the technology industry. In addition to sustainability and innovation, the figures on turnover, order volume and industry developments are striking.
 

Stable turnover, varying order size per sector

Total company turnover remains largely stable, although there are significant differences between sectors:

• Industrial Automation (IA): slight growth in turnover and order position, partly due to the demand for automation solutions and cybersecurity applications. The energy transition and AI play a key role here.
• Industrial Electronics (IE): turnover slightly down, but order volume is growing due to demand for defense-related products and niche markets such as e-mobility and circular economy.
• Laboratory Technology (LT): a slight increase in turnover thanks to the growing demand for sustainable and circular solutions, in particular refurbished equipment and biotechnological applications.

Opportunities and challenges: energy transition and regulations

• Chances: Companies see potential in sustainability, circular economy and digitalization. AI and cybersecurity in particular offer growth opportunities.
• Challenges: Entrepreneurs are confronted with geopolitical uncertainties, rising personnel costs and stricter regulations such as the European NIS2 directive.

Outlook 2025: focus on innovation and niche markets

The sector is preparing for a challenging but promising 2025. Innovation in products and services, such as AI applications, remains crucial. In addition, niche markets such as defense and sustainability are becoming increasingly important. The sector expects further growth, provided that companies respond flexibly to new trends and regulations.

Conclusion

The Economic Barometer Q4 2024 confirms that the technology industry is in a period of transition. Despite challenges, there are still plenty of opportunities to grow by investing in innovation and sustainability.

Knowing more? Download the full barometer: https://fhi.nl/economische-barometer/

Please note: Due to a low response rate, the results for the Building Automation sector have not been included in this barometer.