Will Tariff Costs Force a Revision of Automation Plans and Sourcing Strategies?
Sept. 9, 2025
In this episode we'll look at the impact of the recently imposed U.S. tariffs on industrial automation technologies, with insights from Endress+Hauser USA, Fluke Reliability, Weidmuller USA, Actemium Avanceon and Opto 22. We'll also provide recommendations on steps automation buyers can be taking now to secure stable pricing and supply.
Tariff costs have escalated rapidly and spread beyond imports — Over 82% of packaging and processing technology companies report direct impact, with Endress+Hauser nearly doubling their supply chain surcharge from 4.5% to 8.4% in just three months, while even domestic parts costs are rising due to supply chain ripple effects.
Companies are implementing both short-term price increases and long-term strategic shifts — Most suppliers have moved from stockpiling inventory to passing tariff costs through surcharges, while simultaneously investing in manufacturing diversification away from China and expanding domestic production capabilities.
Future supply chain risks may be delayed but significant — While lead times haven't been severely impacted yet, industry experts warn that if demand suddenly resurges after inventory levels naturally decrease, response times could slow dramatically due to the gradual nature of supply chain adjustments.
