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What's the real story behind the '2026 automation squeeze' - are we facing genuine component shortages or just clever marketing to drive up prices?

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Based on my research, the '2026 automation squeeze' appears to be a mix of both genuine supply chain challenges and some marketing hype. Here's what I found:

There are real component shortages happening right now - lead times for key automation parts like PLC modules are stretching 8-12 weeks, with some specialized components hitting 16 weeks due to supply chain backlogs. The semiconductor industry is still facing challenges, and electronic component shortages are expected to continue through 2025.

However, the term '2026 automation squeeze' seems to be heavily promoted by companies like Industrial Automation Co. as a marketing strategy. They're using it to sell their services and solutions for 'future-proofing' spare parts strategies.

The reality is that supply chain issues are real and ongoing, but framing it as a specific '2026 squeeze' might be a bit of marketing exaggeration. The component shortages are happening now and will likely continue, but whether it will specifically peak in 2026 is uncertain.

So while there are genuine supply chain problems that could lead to price increases, the specific '2026 automation squeeze' branding seems to be partly a clever marketing tactic to create urgency and drive business.

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