Rethinking Industry and Manufacturing: What Industry 5.0 Means for You
6 top takeaways from a webinar
By Stijn Viaene
Professor of Digital Transformation
By Matthias Keller
Doctoral Researcher, Digital Transformation
In an age where digital transformation shapes every sector, understanding the next shift, Industry 5.0, is essential. In a recent Vlerick webinar, our experts broke down this emerging concept, offering clear insights into its implications for businesses of today and tomorrow.
The discussion featured Professor Stijn Viaene and doctoral researcher Matthias Keller, who explored the nuances of this industrial revolution. Here are the six top takeaways:
#1 - Industry 5.0 isn’t just a tech upgrade: it's a values shift
Unlike Industry 4.0, which focused on automation and smart factories, Industry 5.0 repositions people at the heart of technological progress. It’s about creating value through human-centric, sustainable, and resilient ecosystems.
#2 - It's driven by the European Commission
This paradigm shift was formalised in 2021, emphasising societal and planetary well-being, alongside economic growth. It’s a European answer to hyper-automation, advocating a broader, inclusive view of progress
#3 - The transition from I4.0 to I5.0 is about mindset, not just machinery
Where I4.0 optimised internal processes with smart systems, I5.0 expands this by rethinking core business models towards embracing ecosystems for shared value creation.
#4 - Human and machine collaboration is key
Rather than replacing people, the goal is to augment human capabilities. Think of AI-enhanced quality checks that support operators, not replace them.
#5 - It's a response to global volatility
From pandemics to geopolitical shifts, resilience has become a business imperative. Industry 5.0 promotes adaptability through decentralised, collaborative networks.
#6 - Real-world examples are emerging
Schneider Electric and Beaulieu International Group are paving the way, integrating sustainability and learning into their transformation journeys. They’re proving that European firms can lead in this space.
Conclusion: Embrace the shift
Industry 5.0 is not a distant future. It’s a call to action. Businesses that start aligning their strategies with these new values will be better positioned to lead, adapt, and thrive.
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