35. Competition FACTORY OF THE YEAR

The FACTORY OF THE YEAR is one of the most prestigious industry competitions in Europe. The winners of the current benchmark competition are honored at the congress.

Of course, winning a prestigious award such as the FACTORY OF THE YEAR is a great incentive for employees. Nevertheless, regardless of winning an award, all participants benefit from the competition. Participation is free.

“Just filling out the questionnaire has made us aware of a number of weak points in the company,” participants report time and again. All companies receive a detailed, confidential evaluation that provides them with information about their position in comparison to companies with a similar starting position. Shortlisted candidates are visited on site by an experienced Kearney audit team and then receive initial expert feedback.

Finally, the congress FACTORY OF THE YEAR, where the best reveal their recipes for success, is an ideal forum for exchanging ideas.

Apply until July 31!

The Startup Challenge is taking place for the eighth time as part of the congress FACTORY OF THE YEAR. We are looking for start-ups that are defining the future of production technology with innovative technologies and sustainable solutions. Regardless of whether you optimize processes, make more efficient use of energy and resources or work with pioneering materials: The best ideas deserve a stage - and that's what we offer!

Why you should take part:

• Direct access to top decision-makers: Pitch your ideas in front of a high-caliber expert audience from leading companies in the industry. Here you will meet potential customers, investors and partners who are ready to help you shape the future.
• Feedback from industry experts: Take advantage of this unique opportunity to receive ad-hoc feedback on your solutions and gain valuable insights to make your innovations even better.
• Free exhibition space: All startups that secure a pitch at the congress can also set up an exhibition stand there. This is your chance to position yourself as a key player in the industry and establish networks for future collaborations.
• Chances of winning: The expert audience will vote live via app at the congress for the winning startup, which will be honored at the award ceremony.

Apply starting in November 2026 and present your solution at the Factory of the Year Congress.

The winners are selected in two stages.

Companies complete the detailed questionnaire online. 

The questionnaire asks for quantitative and qualitative information on typical factory performance data along the value chain. Based on these key figures, the finalists are determined and visited by an experienced Kearney audit team. The advisory board, which is made up of renowned experts from industry and science, then selects the winners in the various categories.

All participants in the competition receive a detailed evaluation in the form of a feedback report, which provides confidential information about their position in the competition and points out potential areas for improvement. 

Participation in the competition is free.

If you have any questions about the competition, please do not hesitate to contact us!

Send us an e-mail at fabrikdesjahres@kearney.com.