Dutch industry firmly believes in digitalization, yet it is falling behind the rest of Europe. SMEs in particular are at risk of no longer keeping up the pace. Research (OnePoll, March 2024) shows that 82% of companies believe in the positive impact of digitalization. Even so, the Netherlands ranks third in the EU digitalization index, while industry scores just 33% — one of the lowest figures, only just above government and below retail.
The gap between large companies and SMEs is growing fast: only one in four SMEs is ready for digitalization, compared to six in ten large enterprises. And that is despite the enormous opportunities on offer: more than half of companies could cut costs through digital tools, and 39% could boost productivity through automation, process digitalization or predictive maintenance. Yet security also remains a concern: only 25% of SMEs have an OT cyber strategy.
Entrepreneurs looking for a compass in digital chaos
Many entrepreneurs in the manufacturing industry still see digitalization as something for “the big players” — too expensive, too complex or simply not relevant. There is still a persistent misconception that data, AI and analytics are mainly theoretical buzzwords, rather than practical growth accelerators.
The team behind ABISS Breda wants to lower that barrier. “The problem is not the availability of technology,” says organizer Karl D’Haveloose, “but the lack of guidance. Companies don’t know where to begin.”
That is why ABISS serves as a practical compass for digitalization. In a single day, visitors get a clear overview of what actually works — with concrete cases, hands-on demos and insights from industry pioneers.
One day. 7 expert classes. 45 tech partners. And all of it free.
On 30 October at Breepark Breda, ABISS brings together all the expertise around three themes:
- Industry of Things
- Intelligence of Things
- Security of Things
During seven neutral Expert Classes, industry experts share their experiences with digital transformation, AI and cybersecurity. Expect cases from Valk Welding, Batenburg, Smurfit Westrock, TNO, Cboost and the Cyberweerbaarheidscentrum Maakindustrie.
Adriaan Broere (Valk Welding) shows how digitalization leads to innovative models such as Welding as a Service (WaaS).
Stephan van den Berg (Batenburg Plug & Produce) explains how his factory can start up autonomously thanks to digitalization.
Daniel Telgen (Cboost) demonstrates how AI is already supporting the skilled hands on the shop floor today.
Rob Verseijden and Josephine van Luik bring cybersecurity back to the factory floor with concrete examples of OT security in practice.
Programme highlights
| Time | Speaker | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| 10:00 – 10:30 | Jeroen Broekhuijsen (TNO) | Getting your factory ready for the future |
| 10:35 – 11:05 | Josephine van Luik (CWM ZH) | Digital security in the manufacturing industry |
| 11:10 – 11:40 | Daniel Telgen (Cboost) | Let AI supercharge your automation business case |
| 11:45 – 12:15 | Stephan van den Berg (Batenburg) | The intelligent factory: where flexibility and autonomy come together |
| 13:15 – 13:45 | Adriaan Broere (Valk Welding) | Digitalizing towards new business models (RWAAS) |
| 13:50 – 14:20 | Arno Voets (Smurfit Westrock) | The customer portal as a hub for order in global order flows |
| 15:00 – 15:30 | Rob Verseijden (Batenburg Magion) | OT Cybersecurity from the factory floor |
Alongside the talks, more than 45 technology partners will present their solutions in an inspiring exhibition hall full of demonstrations and networking opportunities. All in an accessible setting, including free catering.
ABISS Breda: the wake-up call for Dutch manufacturing
With ABISS, the organizers want to transform Dutch industry into a connected, data-driven and cyber-secure frontrunner in Europe. Not through theoretical talk, but through tangible real-world examples.
Or, as Karl D’Haveloose sums it up in the video podcast:
“ABISS is not a trade fair, it’s a wake-up call. In a single day you’ll understand what digitalization can really mean for your factory.”
Turn your digital ambitions into action today
The first Dutch edition of ABISS takes place on 30 October 2025 at Breepark Breda.
Participation is completely free, but the number of places is limited to 500 visitors.
Register for free at www.abissummit.nl
Or use the code ABI715 for direct registration.
ABISS Breda – one day, endless insights.