Looking back: trends and developments in plastic machining in 2025
In 2025, it became clear that the plastic machining market was entering a phase of maturity. This was evident from, among other things, the arrival of various new entrants and the growth of specialisms. However, innovations in the field of bonding, the continued development from metal to plastic, digitization, and sustainability also ensured that existing companies in this market continued to innovate. This resulted in more opportunities with regard to plastic processing. These trends are explained in more detail in our blog article on the trends and developments of 2025 and form an important basis for developments towards 2026.
Trend 1: Specialization & extra value-added services
By 2026, the role of plastic machining companies will shift even further and more frequently from supplier to chain partner. Customers expect not only accurately milled or turned parts, but complete solutions that go beyond the machining process alone.
The integration of bonding, assembly, and other preparatory processes within a single chain is becoming increasingly common. At the same time, there is also increasing demand for hybrid production methods, in which machining is combined with additive manufacturing, for example. This is easier said than done. Discover how we at BKB Precision recently achieved this with extreme precision for a high-end customer in the high-tech industry.
Trend 2: Increased use of high-performance plastics in the defense industry
By 2026, the defense industry will have developed into an important growth market for high-performance plastics. Due to stricter requirements in terms of weight, durability, and functionality, metal components are increasingly being replaced by high-quality plastics such as PEEK and PEI. These materials not only offer technical advantages, but also contribute to design freedom and functional integration.
For plastics machining companies, this means an increasing need for in-depth material expertise, process reliability, and quality assurance in order to meet the high demands of this sector.
Trend 3: AI and smart machining are in their infancy
Although AI and smart machining will not yet be commonplace in the plastics machining market in 2026, they do mark the beginning of a fundamental change. Current applications focus primarily on insight and support, but already demonstrate the potential of this technology for process control and quality.
As systems mature, AI-driven processes will play an increasingly important role in efficient and scalable production. The use of AI is also increasing creativity in the machining process. Early adoption and experimentation are therefore an important step towards future-proof machining.
Trend 4: Sustainability and circular machining
Sustainability and circular machining will continue to play a role in 2026. Within the market, this will certainly remain a key pillar in the coming years, with increasing demand for demonstrable sustainability, requiring organizations to be able to substantiate their CO₂ impact per product and process. This development makes sustainability a distinguishing factor and a strategic competitive advantage.
Circular thinking is no longer limited to the choice of materials, but extends across the entire production process. The structural reuse of plastic waste streams, investment in energy-efficient machines, and the use of minimal or dry machining are important developments in this regard.
At BKB Precision, we have also been working on this for a number of years and will be publishing our third sustainability report in Q2, which will detail exactly where we stand on this issue. It will also outline the steps we still need to take and will be taking to become even more sustainable.
In 2025, we will also have set up a reuse process for a single customer, but for multiple items, whereby we reassess, repair, and clean the items we produce for a new round of use.
Trend 5: International expansion and scalability
International diversification will become an increasingly important building block for sustainable growth in 2026. The establishment of a branch in Malaysia is therefore an important step in the international growth strategy of the BKB Precision group. This expansion contributes to risk diversification and increases the agility of the organization.
At the same time, there will be a strong focus on more intensive collaboration within the group in the coming year. By making better use of capacity, knowledge, and resources across the various locations, the different branches within the group will be able to provide their customers with even better support in terms of flexibility, delivery reliability, and scalability. Manufacturing the product where the price-quality ratio is optimal for the customer.
Ready for the future of plastic machining
As we approach 2026, it is becoming clear that success in the plastic machining market requires more than just technical expertise. Sustainability, specialization, smart technology, and international cooperation together form the building blocks for further growth. Would you like to discover how BKB Precision is leveraging these trends to optimize your production processes? Contact us and talk to our specialists.
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A website that reflects our core values
BKB Precision’s old website no longer met expectations: it was slow, complicated, and technically outdated. This was at odds with our core values of precision and customer focus. That is why we made a conscious decision to invest in a fresh, new online environment, so that we can offer our visitors a modern, fast, and user-friendly experience.
Improved, accelerated, simplified
From now on, you can navigate to the information that is relevant to you even faster and more easily. The structure of the website is clearer, the loading time has been reduced, and the display on mobile devices has been greatly improved. Contacting us or requesting a quote is now also hassle-free thanks to user-friendly forms. Use the button below to contact us directly. We would love to hear what you think of our revamped website!
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Why plastic? The real advantages for medical applications
Medical innovators don’t choose plastic just because. They do so because it offers solutions that are simply not feasible with metal or glass.
- Lightweight and strong
Ideal for portable equipment and ergonomic instruments. - Chemically and thermally resistant
Resistant to intensive cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization. - Design freedom
Complex geometries, microchannels, and optical surfaces are possible—opening the door to new product concepts. - Cost and process advantages
Plastics can be processed extremely quickly, with excellent reproducibility.
The critical factor: precision
In the medical world, “close enough” is simply not good enough.
A deviation of just a few micrometers can lead to leaks in microfluidics, inaccurate sample analysis, or mechanical failure.
Modern CNC plastic machining makes tolerances achievable that were previously considered impossible. Combined with advanced measurement methods and ISO-compliant production, this creates a manufacturing process that focuses on traceability, stability, and certainty.
Innovation & sustainability: the new standard
The medical sector demands sustainable, traceable production. Recycled and bio-based plastics are becoming increasingly easier to machine and are increasingly being approved for use in medical equipment.
Materials that were considered “too unstable” five years ago are now of sufficient quality for precision machining. This is giving rise to a new generation of components that are both technically and ecologically future-proof. If you would like to know more about the applications and possibilities of plastics, please feel free to contact us.
Material selection and applications: what works where?
The right plastic directly determines the performance of medical equipment. An overview of the most commonly used materials and their typical applications:
- PEEK
Strong, biocompatible, sterilizable → suitable for surgical components, support structures, and high-end analyzers. - POM
Low friction, highly dimensionally stable → ideal for valves, bearings, gears, and other moving parts. - PET
Extremely dimensionally stable → suitable for flow cells, optical chambers, measuring modules, and precision housings. - HMPE
Wear-resistant and self-lubricating → used for slide guides, guide plates, and moving laboratory parts.
By linking the application to the right material during the design phase, you can prevent problems such as stress cracks, deformation, or inaccurate measurements—and increase the reliability of the entire system.
Plastics machining is more than just a production technique
It is a strategic technology that determines how innovative, precise, and future-proof medical equipment can be. Choosing the right plastics, the right processing technique, and the right partner who understands the market gives you a competitive edge in a rapidly changing market.
Would you like advice on material selection, precision processing, or sustainable alternatives? Feel free to contact us without obligation.
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Modernization and future-oriented investment
At BKB Precision, we naturally consider it important to have high-quality, up-to-date machinery. Only in this way can we continue to meet our customers’ highest expectations. The high-tech manufacturing industry is developing rapidly, and in order to continue to meet this growing demand, we regularly invest in the latest technologies.
With the arrival of the two Mazak VTC-800 milling machines, we are not only strengthening our production capacity, but also the reliability and continuity we offer our customers.
From loyal service to technological innovation
With the arrival of the Mazak VTC-800 milling machines, we are significantly expanding our technical capabilities. The addition of a 4th axis on both machines makes it possible to mill plastic parts from multiple sides in a single operation. This results in fewer operations, higher process reliability, and consistent quality.
What’s more, after years of loyal service, the previous milling machines were due for replacement. With this investment, we are taking our productivity and precision to a higher level.
Facing the future with renewed strength
Following their successful installation, the new Mazak VTC-800 milling machines are now running at full speed. With this investment, we are taking another step forward toward the future. A future in which quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction go hand in hand. Are you curious about what this expansion could mean for your project? Please feel free to contact us.
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Upgrading Our Machinery
At BKB Precision, we recently took a significant step towards modernisation: two outdated Hermle C22 milling machines were removed and replaced by two state-of-the-art Hermle C32 machines. During this upgrade, we also treated the production floor in that area with a new coating to protect it against wear and chemicals. This makes the workspace safer, more durable, and easier to maintain.
The entire process—from dismantling and floor treatment to installation—was completed smoothly within just four weeks. The new 5-axis milling machines have been successfully tested and are currently going through a precise release process before being fully integrated into our regular production.
From Pallet Changer to Robotic Arm
The new 5-axis C32 milling machines are equipped with an RS1 robot for automated product changes, enabling 24/7 unmanned production. This offers far more possibilities than the older C22 machines, which still relied on a pallet-changing system.
“Thanks to the new C32s, we’re using our space much more efficiently. Although we replaced two machines with two new ones, we’ve created room and standardisation that will allow us to scale up more easily in the future. And all that with higher speed, better precision, and greater versatility,” says Sales Director Van de Burgt.
By choosing Hermle’s C32 machines, we maintain uniformity in our machinery. This ensures that our team’s expertise seamlessly transfers, allowing for a smooth transition in daily operations.
Looking Ahead
“Even in challenging market conditions, BKB Precision continues to invest in the latest technologies,” says Van de Burgt. “Because standing still means falling behind. We are committed to building a future-proof machine park so we can continue to guarantee the highest quality and delivery reliability to our clients.”
And the investments don’t stop with the replacement of the C22 machines. Additional new machines are on the way and will be installed later this year. Stay updated via our news page or social media channels.
Curious what these developments mean for your project? Feel free to contact us, we’re happy to think along with you.
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Why transparency and sustainability are at the heart of the BKB Precision Group
As pioneers in our field, we believe that sharing this report and related sustainability efforts not only demonstrates our commitment, but also inspires others to move in the same direction. We are committed to sustainability, not only because it is necessary, but because we believe it will define the future of our field.
By sharing our progress and challenges, we hope not only to increase our own impact, but also to encourage a broad network of companies and organizations to join us. As such, this report is more than a review of our accomplishments.
What to expect: The key themes in our Sustainability Report 2024
In our Sustainability Report 2024, we again focus on the three pillars: Environment, Social and Governance (ESG). We share our progress in reducing our environmental impact, supporting employees and communities, and strengthening our governance. The report provides a transparent overview of our achievements, goals and the steps we continue to take to make a positive impact.
View the BKB Precision Group Sustainability Report 2024
Within the BKB Precision Group, we are of course aware that we have already made great strides, but also that the work is not yet done. Our Sustainability Report 2024 provides a clear overview of our achievements as well as the goals we still want to achieve. The report offers valuable insights into how we as BKB Precision Group continue to work towards a more sustainable and transparent future, with concrete actions that contribute to a positive impact on both the environment and society. View the 2024 Sustainability Report now via the button below!
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Big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable
Whereas defense equipment used to be mainly big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable, that image has now changed considerably. Of course, there are still impressive armored vehicles, fighter planes and naval vessels. But modern warfare is increasingly about small units, speed, movability, invisibility and lightweight equipment.
Stronger through innovation. Lighter through plastic.
The new role of plastics in the defense industry
It should come as no surprise that plastics, previously hardly used in defense applications, are now playing an indispensable role. From drones and vehicles to advanced combat clothing, plastic components are being used everywhere, replacing metals or other materials.
Weight and material properties are often decisive in material selection. Even a small reduction in weight can make a big difference in the mobility and effectiveness of military personnel.
In short, where plastics used to be thought to “not make a dent in a packet of butter,” they are now indispensable in today’s defense industry. New tactics and strategic principles make plastics – as in other industries – a key component in innovation. Indeed, thanks to the use of plastics, there are more possibilities because of the diverse material properties.
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Strong cooperation as the basis for sustainable steps
Strong collaboration is the key to progress. This has been the case for 35 years in our collaboration with ERIKS, which has developed into a close partnership centered on flexibility and innovation. Thanks to open communication and a shared focus on quality and efficiency, we continue to challenge each other to improve further. This same collaboration has now led to an important decision that will not only benefit our efficiency but also have a positive impact on the future.
The sustainable initiative of BKB Precision and ERIKS in action
In a joint effort, we and ERIKS decided to replace cardboard boxes with reusable crates, which not only reduces packaging waste but also improves logistics efficiency. This choice results in a saving of 2,500 packages per year, which reduces both costs and CO2 emissions. The initiative is a good example of how smart collaboration and forward thinking can lead to concrete improvements with a positive impact on the future.
Sustainable choices in practice
According to Tineke Metzemaekers, Tactical Purchaser at BKB Precision, the collaboration with ERIKS has always focused on innovation and efficiency: “This initiative is perfectly in line with our values. It is a strategic choice that offers both short-term and long-term benefits for both the operation and the environment.”
Han Reker, Application Engineer at ERIKS, adds: “It’s great to see how our long-term collaboration is now having such a direct and lasting impact. This step is not only good for the environment, but also contributes to our joint efficiency improvement and deepens our relationship.”
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1. Development in bonding
The market is making increasingly high demands for high-quality and durable bonding of plastics, particularly in sectors such as medical technology. At BKB Precision, we are investing heavily in the optimization of our bonding processes in 2025. With the purchase of a plasma treatment device, a dispensing device and an XYZ robot (planned for Q1 2025), we are taking our precision and efficiency to a new level.
These innovations will enable us to meet our customers’ increasingly stringent expectations and maintain a competitive edge. Once these new techniques are fully integrated into our processes, we will elaborate on their operation and the benefits they offer to our customers and markets in a future blog.
2. Sustainability
Sustainability will remain a spearhead for BKB Precision in 2025. As we did in 2024, we are again committed to various sustainability initiatives this year to further minimize our impact on the environment and achieve our stated goals. We are currently busy preparing our 2024 sustainability report and working on further specifying our climate awareness to meet the strictest regulations within the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).
At BKB Precision, we are convinced that sustainability is not just a trend, but a necessary basis for long-term success and a better world. This is why we like to be at the forefront of this field within the plastics processing industry! Check out our sustainability activities now via the button below.
3. Further development from metal to plastic
We notice that customers are increasingly developing their products from metal to plastic, and we expect this trend to continue in 2025. This shift is not without reason: plastic offers numerous advantages over metal, such as lower weight, corrosion resistance and greater design freedom. Moreover, plastic machining processes often enable more efficient and cost-effective production without sacrificing precision and durability.
Thanks to continuous technological advances, more and more high-performance plastics are being developed that can match or even exceed the properties of metal. A good example of this is PEEK, an extremely strong and wear-resistant plastic. The product you see here shows how one of our customers successfully made the transition from metal to plastic. Read how this transition led to a better and more sustainable end product via the button below.
4. Digitization
As in 2024, digitization will remain a key theme within the manufacturing industry in 2025. Partly due to the rise of AI, this theme also continues to develop at a rapid pace. The more efficient, faster and more reliable exchange of data between companies contributes to higher productivity and shorter lead times. In an industry where pressure is high and delivery times are under stress, digital optimization is becoming increasingly crucial to remain competitive.
At BKB Precision, we therefore continue to invest in digitalization. Whereas in 2024 we already took steps in this area, in 2025 we will take further steps to optimize our processes. The integration of AI and advanced digital systems will help us cooperate even more efficiently with customers and partners, reduce error margins and shorten production times. Digitalization is no longer an option, but a necessity for companies that want to remain future-proof.
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BKB Precision Holding’s new office building.
Our new building, located at Science Park Eindhoven 5210 and right next to our production building at Science Park Eindhoven 5208, features modern facilities that promote more efficient collaboration and innovation and provides more space for our teams.
Getting the new premises ready
Recently, a team has been working hard to renovate our new office building so that our colleagues there can perform optimally for our customers. Since last week, the first colleagues have finally moved in and an efficient internal communication line has been set up, making consultations easy and smooth.
As previously mentioned, the new office building is located right next to the production building, so colleagues can still easily drop in on each other when needed.
What next?
After the relocation of departments such as Holding Management, Sales, HRM, ICT, Finance and Marketing to the new office building, we will soon start renovations and redesigns in our production building as well. This will create additional space for new machines and allow us to facilitate our growth even better. More information will follow soon!