Developing a strong business case for additive manufacturing (AM) in the automotive industry is rarely straightforward. This presentation explores the key challenges organisations face when justifying AM adoption, from navigating complex cost modelling considerations to accurately projecting return on investment. It will also examine the commercial realities that influence decision making — including budget constraints, capital investment cycles, and the need to clearly demonstrate value over conventional manufacturing methods.

Leadership alignment will be a central theme, highlighting how engineering, operations, finance, and senior decision makers can build a shared understanding of AM’s benefits, limitations, and strategic potential. The session will outline practical approaches for communicating AM opportunities in ways that resonate with commercial leaders, address common concerns around risk and scalability, and support long term organisational buy in.

Attendees will leave with practical insights and frameworks to more effectively communicate, justify, and secure support for AM technologies and equipment across both technical and leadership teams.

Following these insightful presentation, TCT Head of Content Laura Griffiths brings together TCT UK User Group contributors from JLR, Rolls‑Royce, Nestlé and GKN Aerospace to explore the pressing topics shaping additive manufacturing adoption today. This cross‑industry panel will delve further into the shared challenges and successes AM users face—from building a robust business case and optimising workflows to implementing technology at scale within established operations and creating adept teams. The discussion will explore how organisations are advancing digital integration to unlock greater efficiency and traceability. Attendees will gain user‑driven insights, practical learnings and actionable strategies directly informed by real experiences across industry verticals.