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- Weekly 5: February 13, 2026
Weekly 5: February 13, 2026
The Factory Wire: Manufacturing Intel, Simplified

🏭 Top Story
Powering Up: Siemens Sees Surging Demand for Electrification Products from US Data Centers

Siemens CEO Roland Busch said demand from U.S. data centers is “very strong,” fueled by rapid expansion in artificial intelligence and cloud computing infrastructure. This trend has boosted Siemens’ electrification and automation businesses, especially its Digital Industries division, where profit increased 37% due to higher orders for factory software and automation solutions.
Data centers require advanced power distribution, grid connections, and efficiency systems, positioning Siemens as a key supplier in this growing market. The company expects continued growth as AI-driven infrastructure investment accelerates, strengthening its long-term outlook in industrial automation and digital infrastructure.
📈 Market Snapshot
Insight: S&P 500 Industrials moved up 2.0% over the past week, reflecting positive sentiment in the manufacturing sector.
⚙️ Quick Takes
🧠 Building Products Industry Shifts: QXO's Acquisition of Kodiak Sets New Logistics Standards
QXO will acquire Kodiak for over $2.25 billion, expanding its footprint in building products distribution. The deal advances QXO’s strategy to consolidate the fragmented industry and scale through logistics-driven growth.
Read the full story at FreightWaves →
⚠️ Unmasking PPE Resistance: Strategies to Boost Safety Compliance in Manufacturing
Workers resist PPE mainly due to discomfort, inconvenience and workplace culture, not lack of awareness. Improving comfort, leadership example and positive safety culture increases compliance.
Read the full story at Plant Engineering →
🏗️ Navigating Growth Opportunities and Market Dynamics: Insights for Manufacturing Professionals from GXO's Latest Report
GXO sees strong growth potential in North America despite cautious expectations for flat freight volumes in 2026. The company plans to grow mainly through new contracts and operational efficiency.
Read the Full story at FreightWaves →
📊 This Week's Chart

Insight: Capacity utilization remained stable to 75.5%, indicating moderate factory utilization rates and balanced operations.
Source: Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
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