At IMTS 2026, igus spotlighted a range of motion and automation technologies aimed at helping manufacturers deploy automation more quickly and cost-effectively, while addressing ongoing labor shortages and workforce challenges. 

Speaking from the company's booth, Felix Brockmeyer, CEO of igus North America, said demand for automation continues to grow as manufacturers look for ways to offset a shrinking labor pool. He pointed to the company's RBTX marketplace as a key part of igus' strategy for simplifying automation adoption. 

The RBTX platform allows users to configure automation systems with transparent pricing and technology options by combining igus products with technologies from a network of automation partners. Brockmeyer compared the marketplace to "the Android of the cell phone world," describing it as an open platform that integrates complementary technologies into complete automation solutions.

Rather than developing every element of an automation system in-house, igus works with partners that provide robotic arms, vision systems and application-specific technologies. While automation-as-a-service and equipment rental models continue to gain traction across manufacturing, noted Brockmeyer, igus remains focused on its core mission of supplying and integrating the hardware needed to make automation systems move. The company positions this ecosystem approach as a way to give users access to a wide range of solutions while simplifying system integration. 

READ MORE: What’s Moving at igus? From Motion Plastics to AMRs

"There are many other [go-to-market solutions] out there, from private labeling the entire solution chain as well as trying to make all the products yourself," Brockmeyer said. "We are not a software company, we don't claim to be a software company, so that's not the route we chose to go. We believe that somebody has to make the hardware and combine good hardware to solve problems." 

Brockmeyer also noted growing interest in flexible automation models, including subscription-based and rental offerings that allow manufacturers to add automation capacity as needed. While igus has chosen a different approach, he described those models as "all very viable solutions." 

The company's IMTS 2026 exhibit reflected its core focus on motion within industrial automation, showcasing technologies ranging from simple actuators to complete robotic systems designed to help manufacturers improve productivity and overcome workforce constraints.  

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