The article examines the transformation of maintenance in the modern industrial sector, emphasizing its evolution from merely a technical necessity to a strategic investment. Rizos Goula, the Director of Technical Support at ABB's Motion Systems division, explains how advancements in Artificial Intelligence and digital solutions are enhancing production resilience and reducing energy costs. This shift provides a significant competitive advantage and ensures the sustainability of Greek businesses in the future.

Historically, maintenance was viewed as an unavoidable expense, often reactive and triggered by equipment failures. Goula illustrates that the mindset within companies is gradually changing, as more organizations are recognizing the importance of proactive maintenance strategies. These practices not only improve equipment efficiency and longevity but also contribute to overall operational effectiveness by optimizing resource use and minimizing downtime.

Goula suggests that while the industry has made strides towards embracing these proactive strategies, it still has further to go. He notes that many companies have yet to fully mature their maintenance practices, indicating a growing need for training and investment in new technologies. As the landscape evolves, organizations that adopt a forward-thinking maintenance approach will likely gain a crucial lead in the competitive industrial arena.