In a rapidly evolving manufacturing landscape, aftermarket parts and services have emerged not only as a reliable revenue stream but as a critical strategic pillar for OEMs navigating economic uncertainty, shifting customer expectations, and technological disruption. The 2025 Aftermarket Parts & Service report, produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, delivers a comprehensive blueprint for how OEMs can meet the moment — leveraging innovation, insight, and investment to drive long-term growth and partnership value.

The Case for Aftermarket Focus

Traditionally, OEMs derived the lion’s share of their revenue from new machinery sales. However, as the report reveals, this model is in transition. Over the next three years, nearly every OEM surveyed foresees growth in both parts (96%) and services (94%). Why? Because end users — spanning consumer packaged goods manufacturers, contract manufacturers, and food and beverage processors — are investing in upgrades, retrofits, and service agreements to extract more value from existing assets.

Inflationary pressure, workforce shortages, and long lead times on new equipment are accelerating this pivot. End users report overwhelmingly (98%) that their budgets for aftermarket parts will either expand or hold steady, with similar expectations (94%) for services.

Meeting Evolving End User Needs

PMMI’s findings spotlight what end users want most from their aftermarket partners: immediate availability of parts (75%), short lead times (75%), and support for predictive maintenance and operator training (both at 29%). Timeliness and responsiveness are no longer negotiable — they’re a baseline requirement.

This requires more than inventory management. It demands robust digital infrastructure, clear documentation, and dedicated aftermarket teams. In fact, 84% of OEMs now report having dedicated aftermarket departments or personnel, a best practice that correlates with stronger customer relationships and more streamlined operations.

The challenges are substantial. Both OEMs and end users cited lead times, availability, and technician shortages as the top hurdles. These shared frustrations highlight a critical truth: successful aftermarket growth depends on OEMs becoming more than equipment providers. They must become proactive partners in uptime, productivity, and lifecycle management.

Technology: A Competitive Lever

Emerging technologies — particularly remote access and 3D printing — are beginning to reshape the aftermarket landscape.

Remote access, while still limited due to cybersecurity and integration concerns, is gaining traction. Over 67% of OEMs offer some level of remote monitoring, and 76% have increased R&D investments in this area. Digital engagement is not just a convenience — it’s quickly becoming a customer expectation.

3D printing, too, is emerging as a flexible tool for legacy parts and rapid prototyping. While adoption is still modest (only 18% of end users currently use 3D-printed parts), the potential for faster turnaround and custom solutions offers a strategic edge for OEMs ready to invest.

Strategic Recommendations for OEMs

The PMMI report outlines a roadmap for aftermarket excellence. Here are key actions OEMs should prioritize:

1. Optimize Inventory and Forecasting: Leverage demand analytics and transparent communication to ensure critical parts are stocked and delivery times are reliable.
2. Develop Digital Expertise: Invest in predictive maintenance, remote diagnostics, and digital platforms that mirror the B2C experience — enhancing convenience and trust.
3. Advance Workforce Training: Support both internal technicians and customer teams with targeted training programs to address skill gaps and reduce downtime.
4. Plan for Obsolescence: Communicate proactively about end-of-life parts and solutions, allowing end users to plan upgrades and avoid disruptions.
5. Bundle and Personalize Services: Use purchase pattern data to develop tailored packages that align with customer needs and boost service revenue.

These aren’t just efficiency plays — they are value propositions that deepen customer loyalty and differentiate OEMs in a crowded field.

A New Model for Sustainable Growth

As OEMs reevaluate their growth models, it’s clear that the aftermarket is not just a supplement to new equipment sales — it is a strategic growth engine. Higher margins, recurring revenue, and stronger customer relationships all point to a compelling case: Aftermarket investment isn’t optional; it’s essential.

By aligning capabilities with end-user expectations, adopting enabling technologies, and committing to a support-first mindset, OEMs can transform their aftermarket business from reactive fulfillment to proactive value creation.

PMMI’s role as a connector and catalyst in this space is crucial. Through resources like the MaX Member Forum, OpX Leadership Network, and research like the Aftermarket Parts & Service report, PMMI provides OEMs with the insights and tools to lead this transformation.

The most significant opportunity for OEMs to connect with customers and collaborate on aftermarket services will be at PACK EXPO Las Vegas (Sept. 29-Oct. 1; Las Vegas Convention Center), the premier packaging and processing event of the year. Join 35,000 industry professionals from 40+ vertical markets and explore innovations from 2,300 exhibitors across 1 million net square feet of exhibit space. Engage with cutting-edge solutions, participate in over 100 educational sessions, and forge valuable connections that will propel your business forward. Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to stay ahead in the industry. Register now to connect with industry leaders, discover state-of-the-art innovations, and gain a competitive edge. Visit packexpolasvegas.com to learn more and register.