Engel forecasts 10% revenue growth as machinery markets recover

Schwertberg, Austria – Moulding machinery maker Engel expects a 10% revenue increase in its 2026/27 fiscal year, supported by stronger demand in the US and India and some recovery in Europe.

In a 12 Oct press statement, the Austrian group forecast full-year sales to come in at €1.55 billion, noting that business was currently performing 'ahead of plan'.

On the other hand, CEO Stefan Engleder cautioned that it was too early to "speak of a broad recovery" in the injection moulding market.

“We are seeing an upturn, but the structural changes in our industry remain, and we are adapting to them,” according to the machinery group's leader. 

"Engineering expertise has real economic value,” added Engleder, explaining that customers increasingly need technologies that improve productivity, reduce unit costs and deliver a clear return on investment.

As an example, Engel cited the use of its tiebar-less Victory electric injection moulding machine in the production of large-format liquid silicone rubber (LSR) seals.

During the recent Fakuma rubber & plastics expo in Germany, the machine was displayed producing seals “without flash or [the need for] subsequent trimming”.

Commenting further on the market environment, Engel said the strongest demand growth was coming from the US, where manufacturers are expanding domestic production and reviving postponed projects.

Growth areas include housings and components for piping, cooling and electrical systems required by new data centre infrastructure.

Engel also reported opportunities in water infrastructure, household products and –  perhaps most encouragingly – new vehicle programmes and previously delayed projects in the automotive industry.

In Europe, meanwhile, sentiment has improved in recent months, with enquiries "once again leading to initial orders," said the plastics & rubber machinery supplier

Here, SMEs are increasingly replacing older equipment and considering new production concepts, while demand remains "resilient" in construction, water infrastructure and logistics applications.

However, the European automotive sector "continues to lag", with financial pressure on suppliers and cost-cutting programmes at vehicle OEs holding back investment.

Medical applications, according to Engel, remain a stable market worldwide, while packaging manufacturers continue to invest in energy-efficient equipment .

In Asia, Engel reported strong growth in India, supported by capacity expansion, local manufacturing and infrastructure investment.

Similar developments are creating opportunities in Africa, the group added.

China, however, "remains challenging", particularly amid weaker automotive demand and intense price-competition, with capacities built-up in recent years also weighing on investment.

Nevertheless, Engel identified opportunities in electronics, semiconductors and humanoid robotics, where manufacturers are seeking lower material consumption, more stable processes and shorter payback periods.

In response to the overall market trends, the Austrian group said it was strengthening its European manufacturing presence through its site in Kikinda, Serbia.

Meanwhile, a partnership with French machinery manufacturer Billion is expected to provide a significant route for customers to invest in new Engel equipment.

Alongside enhanced supply capabilities, Engel said it is focusing on modernisation, retrofitting and relocation services for its installed base of over 125,000 machines worldwide.