Multiple end-use industries rejuvenate PLC market

23rd January 2015

Nat Bowers

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According to analysis from Frost & Sullivan, the global PLC market witnessed a strong decline in growth in 2012 due to the uncertain economic scenario in the developed world, notably in mature North American and European markets. However, since 2013, the market has witnessed positive growth across all regions, particularly in emerging regions such as Asia-Pacific. These regions are displaying uptrends due to increased activity in the construction, water and wastewater and power industries.

'Global Programmable Logic Controllers Market' has found that the market earned revenues of $10.37bn in 2013 and estimates this to reach $14.58bn in 2018. The study covers services, software, modular input/output modules, programmable automation controller as well as large, medium, small and nano PLC. In the coming years, the small and medium PLC segments will be instrumental for market development.

In Europe, the need to enhance efficiency, comply with regulations as well as improve safety and control capabilities are driving the uptake of PLC. Market progress in the rest of the world is primarily fuelled by the desire to optimise assets, engage in reliable process planning and achieve operational agility.

Karthik Sundaram, Industry Analyst, Industrial Automation & Process Control, Frost & Sullivan, commented: “With increasing customer demand and intense competition among tier-one companies, the global PLC market is poised to witness a surge in technology and pricing innovation. Market participants have been developing products with new design and control functions that surpass traditional definitions.”

For the innovative wave to have a definite impact, boosting the security features in PLC hardware, software and the network infrastructure should be a key focus area. As cyber security influences end-user perception of PLC, addressing threats will be equally important for continued market expansion.

“PLC manufacturers must offer robust support services, roll out cost-effective products and communicate winning value propositions to customers. They should also strive to expand their geographical presence and refine their domain expertise to taste success," concluded Sundaram.