The dairy equipment industry faces no shortage of challenges, from emerging technologies and regulatory hurdles to shifting customer demands and evolving market conditions. Addressing those challenges often requires more than individual company expertise – it requires collaboration from across the industry.
That spirit of collaboration was on full display as AEM's dairy-focused committees gathered during the 59th World Dairy Expo held last week in Madison, Wisconsin. The meetings brought together dairy equipment manufacturers and industry leaders to discuss market trends, committee priorities, and the value of continued engagement in AEM programs and initiatives. AEM hosted its Dairy Equipment Engineering Committee, the Dairy Equipment Leadership Group, and the Dairy Equipment Statistics Committee for meetings during the event.
A highlight of the gathering was a member panel featuring representatives from dairy and agriculture-focused AEM member companies, who shared firsthand perspectives on the benefits of participating in AEM committees and Market Share Statistics programs.
Turning Industry Data Into Better Decisions
One recurring theme throughout the discussion was the power of industry data to support smarter decision-making.
Attendees noted that participation in AEM's Market Share Statistics programs provides members with access to timely industry intelligence, helping companies better understand market dynamics and evaluate business opportunities. In addition to strengthening individual business planning, the collective data helps create a more complete picture of industry trends.
One member shared how AEM helped demonstrate the value of market intelligence as emerging technologies began gaining traction in the dairy sector.
"When we were struggling to break into an emerging area, AEM used real-world examples from other equipment sectors to show the value of industry data," said GEA Farm Technologies’ Adam Burns. "If organizations are wondering how data can help them, AEM can show people the data and show them how other industries are using it, and they will start to see that value."
Panelists emphasized that access to reliable market data becomes even more impactful when paired with external economic indicators and market intelligence through AEM’s Business Intelligence, allowing companies to make more informed strategic decisions.
Solving Challenges Together
Beyond market intelligence, members highlighted the importance of AEM committees as a forum for industry problem-solving.
As new technologies and equipment categories emerge, manufacturers often encounter common challenges, including product classifications, standards questions, and regulatory considerations. Rather than tackling those issues independently, AEM committees create an environment where members can discuss concerns, share experiences, and work toward common solutions.
"When members have questions about new equipment or emerging technologies, we can come together as an industry and find solutions instead of struggling alone," said DeLaval’s Chris Horton. "Trying to solve those challenges collectively benefits everyone."
That collaborative approach helps reduce duplication of effort while supporting the long-term health of both the dairy equipment industry and the producers it serves.
As the dairy industry continues to evolve, collaboration remains one of its greatest strengths. By leveraging data, sharing experiences, and working toward common goals, AEM members are helping build a stronger, more resilient future for dairy equipment manufacturers and the producers they serve. The conversations held in Madison demonstrated that when the industry comes together, the result is more than valuable insight. It is a collective commitment to advancing the success of the dairy sector for years to come.
For more information on AEM’s agriculture services, contact AEM’s Austin Gellings at agellings@aem.org. For more information on AEM Market Share Statistics, contact AEM's Jacquelyn LaFavor at jlafavor@aem.org.
