Manufacturing Execution System

Manufacturing Execution System Market Outlook

The global Manufacturing Execution System (MES) market is projected to reach approximately USD 20 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of around 14% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. The growth of this market can be attributed to the increasing demand for operational efficiency, the need for real-time data visibility, and the rising adoption of Industry 4.0 principles. Additionally, the growing trend of digital transformation in manufacturing processes is further propelling the demand for MES solutions. Companies are increasingly investing in MES technologies to gain a competitive edge by streamlining their operations and enhancing productivity. The integration of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) within MES is also set to fuel market growth as these technologies offer enhanced data analytics and improved decision-making capabilities.

Growth Factor of the Market

The Manufacturing Execution System market is being significantly influenced by various growth factors that are shaping the landscape of modern manufacturing. One major factor is the increasing need for real-time monitoring and control of production processes. As manufacturers strive for operational excellence, MES solutions provide them with the necessary tools to oversee their manufacturing operations continuously, ensuring that production schedules are met and quality standards are maintained. Furthermore, the rise of automation in manufacturing is prompting companies to adopt MES as a means to integrate automated systems and robotics into their workflows, enhancing efficiency and reducing human errors. Moreover, the growing concern about supply chain disruptions, accentuated by recent global events, has led organizations to invest in MES to improve visibility and responsiveness within supply chains. Another significant factor is the rapid advancements in cloud-based technologies, which facilitate scalable and flexible MES solutions that can be tailored to the unique needs of different manufacturers. Finally, the increasing adoption of lean manufacturing practices encourages the implementation of MES systems to eliminate waste, optimize resource utilization, and achieve higher overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

Key Highlights of the Market

• The MES market is growing rapidly, with a forecasted CAGR of 14% from 2025 to 2035.
• Real-time data monitoring and operational efficiency are driving MES adoption.
• Cloud-based MES solutions are becoming increasingly popular among manufacturers.
• Integration of IoT and AI technologies is enhancing the capabilities of MES.
• Manufacturers are leveraging MES to improve supply chain visibility and responsiveness.

By Offering

Software:

The software segment of the Manufacturing Execution System market encompasses comprehensive solutions that enable manufacturers to monitor and control production processes efficiently. These software solutions provide features for real-time data collection, tracking of work-in-progress (WIP), and management of production schedules. By implementing MES software, organizations can gain valuable insights into their manufacturing operations, enhancing their ability to make informed decisions. The software is typically designed to integrate seamlessly with other enterprise systems such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Supply Chain Management (SCM), enabling a cohesive approach to managing manufacturing processes. Additionally, advancements in technology have led to the development of user-friendly interfaces and mobile applications that allow operators and managers to access critical information on the go. The increasing focus on data analytics within the software segment is also driving its growth, as manufacturers seek to leverage data insights to optimize production performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Services:

The services segment of the MES market includes a wide range of offerings such as consulting, implementation, maintenance, and support services. These services are critical for manufacturers looking to adopt MES solutions, as they require expertise in system design, integration, and optimization. Consulting services help organizations assess their current manufacturing processes and identify areas for improvement, while implementation services ensure that MES solutions are deployed effectively and tailored to meet specific business needs. Furthermore, ongoing maintenance and support services are essential for keeping MES systems up-to-date and functioning optimally, enabling manufacturers to adapt to changing market dynamics. As manufacturers increasingly recognize the importance of MES in achieving operational excellence, the demand for comprehensive services that accompany these solutions is steadily growing, contributing significantly to the overall market expansion.

By Deployment

On-premise:

The on-premise deployment model for Manufacturing Execution Systems involves installing the software and hardware components within the manufacturer’s facilities. This model offers organizations greater control over their MES implementation, allowing them to customize the system according to their unique operational requirements. On-premise solutions can be particularly beneficial for large enterprises that require robust security measures and strict data governance policies, as sensitive production data remains within the company’s infrastructure. Additionally, this deployment model may provide lower long-term costs for organizations that prefer to avoid ongoing subscription fees associated with cloud solutions. However, the on-premise model also demands significant upfront investment in IT infrastructure and personnel to manage and maintain the system, which can be a barrier for smaller manufacturers.

Cloud-based:

Cloud-based Manufacturing Execution Systems are gaining traction due to their flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. This deployment model allows manufacturers to access MES solutions through the internet, eliminating the need for extensive on-premise infrastructure. As a result, organizations can significantly reduce their IT costs and benefit from a pay-as-you-go model, making cloud-based MES solutions particularly appealing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The cloud deployment also facilitates easier updates and maintenance, ensuring that manufacturers are always equipped with the latest features and security enhancements. Moreover, the ability to integrate cloud-based MES with other cloud services, such as data analytics and business intelligence tools, enhances the potential for real-time monitoring and informed decision-making. The growing adoption of Industry 4.0 principles is further propelling the demand for cloud-based MES solutions, as manufacturers seek to leverage connected technologies to optimize their operations.

By Process Industry

Food & Beverages:

The food and beverages industry represents a significant segment of the Manufacturing Execution System market, driven by stringent regulatory requirements and the need for quality assurance. MES solutions in this sector facilitate tracking and monitoring of production processes, ensuring compliance with food safety standards while enhancing visibility throughout the supply chain. Implementing MES allows food manufacturers to streamline their operations, reduce waste, and maintain product quality from raw materials to finished goods. Real-time data analytics provided by MES systems enable organizations to quickly respond to production anomalies, improving their overall efficiency and responsiveness to market demands. As consumer preferences shift towards transparency in food sourcing and production practices, MES solutions play a crucial role in providing the necessary data to support these initiatives.

Pharmaceuticals:

The pharmaceutical industry is characterized by rigorous quality control and compliance requirements, making it a key area for the adoption of Manufacturing Execution Systems. MES solutions in this sector help pharmaceutical companies to manage complex production processes while ensuring adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). By leveraging MES, organizations can maintain comprehensive records of production activities, conduct batch tracking, and facilitate traceability, all of which are critical for regulatory compliance. Additionally, MES systems enable manufacturers to optimize their production schedules and resource allocation, resulting in increased productivity and reduced time-to-market for new drugs. As the industry continues to evolve with advancements in biotechnology and personalized medicine, the role of MES in enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory compliance will become increasingly vital.

Chemicals:

The chemical industry is another significant segment within the Manufacturing Execution System market, where MES solutions play a pivotal role in managing complex manufacturing processes. Given the diverse range of products and the stringent safety regulations within the chemical sector, MES is essential for ensuring process consistency and quality control. MES systems enable chemical manufacturers to monitor production conditions in real time, track batch processes, and manage compliance with environmental regulations. Furthermore, as the industry increasingly embraces digital transformation, MES facilitates integration with other advanced manufacturing technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and predictive analytics, further enhancing operational efficiency. The ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions and regulatory requirements will continue to drive the demand for MES solutions in the chemical industry.

Automotive:

The automotive industry stands as a dominant sector for the Manufacturing Execution System market, driven by the need for efficiency, quality, and compliance in production processes. With the rise of electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing techniques, automotive manufacturers require robust MES solutions to manage their complex supply chains and production workflows. MES systems provide visibility into every stage of the manufacturing process, from parts procurement to assembly and quality assurance. This real-time monitoring enables manufacturers to quickly identify and address production issues, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to production schedules. As automotive manufacturers increasingly focus on lean manufacturing and just-in-time production strategies, the implementation of MES becomes critical in achieving their operational goals and maintaining competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market.

Electronics:

The electronics industry is another vital segment in the Manufacturing Execution System market. With rapid advancements in technology and increasing consumer demand for electronic devices, manufacturers must streamline their production processes to remain competitive. MES solutions in the electronics sector facilitate real-time monitoring and control of manufacturing operations, enabling companies to optimize production lines and reduce time-to-market for new products. Additionally, MES systems support the implementation of quality control measures throughout the manufacturing process, ensuring that electronic components meet stringent quality standards. As the industry continues to evolve towards greater automation and interconnectedness, the demand for MES solutions that can integrate with other digital technologies will be critical in driving innovation and operational efficiency.

By Discrete Industry

Automotive:

The automotive discrete industry relies heavily on Manufacturing Execution Systems to manage its complex production processes effectively. MES solutions enable automotive manufacturers to monitor assembly lines, ensuring that each component meets quality standards before final assembly. Real-time data collection and analysis allow manufacturers to identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies in the production process, facilitating timely interventions to optimize workflow. Furthermore, the integration of MES with supply chain management systems helps companies maintain adequate inventory levels and reduce production downtime. As the automotive industry increasingly embraces automation and smart manufacturing practices, the role of MES in providing seamless integration between different production processes and systems becomes crucial.

Aerospace & Defense:

The aerospace and defense industry is characterized by stringent regulations and high-quality standards, making the adoption of Manufacturing Execution Systems imperative for ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. MES solutions in this sector provide manufacturers with the tools to track production processes from raw materials to finished products, enabling thorough documentation and traceability required by regulatory bodies. The ability to monitor production conditions in real-time ensures that aerospace components meet safety standards and performance requirements. Moreover, as the aerospace industry increasingly incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies such as additive manufacturing and automation, MES systems play a vital role in managing the complexities associated with these innovations, ensuring that production processes remain efficient and compliant.

Machinery:

The machinery industry benefits significantly from the implementation of Manufacturing Execution Systems, which enhance production efficiency and quality control throughout the manufacturing process. MES solutions facilitate real-time tracking of machinery operations, allowing manufacturers to optimize equipment usage and reduce maintenance costs. By integrating MES with other enterprise systems, organizations can achieve a holistic view of their production processes, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation. Additionally, the growing emphasis on smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 is driving the adoption of MES solutions that support data analytics and predictive maintenance, further improving operational performance. As competition intensifies within the machinery sector, the ability to leverage MES for continuous improvement and optimization becomes increasingly critical.

Electronics:

The discrete electronics industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by consumer demand for advanced electronic devices and components. Manufacturing Execution Systems play a crucial role in this sector by providing manufacturers with real-time visibility into production processes, enabling them to respond quickly to changing market conditions. MES solutions facilitate the integration of automation and robotics into manufacturing workflows, improving overall efficiency and reducing labor costs. Furthermore, the ability to manage complex supply chains and ensure product quality through effective monitoring and control processes makes MES indispensable for electronics manufacturers. As the industry continues to innovate and evolve, the demand for sophisticated MES solutions that can adapt to new technologies and production methodologies is expected to rise.

By Region

The regional analysis of the Manufacturing Execution System market reveals distinct trends and growth opportunities across various geographic areas. North America holds a significant share of the MES market, accounting for approximately 35% of the total revenue, driven by the presence of established manufacturing sectors and a strong focus on adopting advanced technologies. The region's commitment to digital transformation and Industry 4.0 initiatives further propels the growth of MES solutions. With a CAGR of around 15%, North America is expected to maintain its leading position throughout the forecast period. Meanwhile, Europe follows closely, comprising around 30% of the market share, as manufacturers increasingly invest in MES to enhance production efficiency and compliance with stringent regulations. The European market is characterized by a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, which drives the adoption of MES technologies.

In the Asia Pacific region, the Manufacturing Execution System market is witnessing rapid growth, projected to achieve a CAGR of approximately 16% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily fueled by the increasing industrialization and expansion of manufacturing hubs in countries such as China, India, and Japan. As these countries continue to invest in modernizing their manufacturing facilities and adopting advanced technologies, the demand for MES solutions is expected to surge. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa comprise smaller shares of the MES market, accounting for around 15% and 10% respectively. However, these regions are gradually recognizing the importance of MES in enhancing operational efficiency and are expected to see steady growth as more manufacturers leverage technology to modernize their operations.

Opportunities

The Manufacturing Execution System market presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation, particularly as manufacturers increasingly embrace digital transformation. One of the most significant opportunities lies in the integration of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and the Internet of Things (IoT) within MES solutions. The application of AI and ML can enhance data analytics capabilities, enabling manufacturers to derive actionable insights from real-time data collected by MES systems. This integration allows for predictive maintenance, optimizing production schedules, and improving overall equipment effectiveness. Furthermore, as the demand for smart manufacturing grows, MES providers have the opportunity to develop solutions that facilitate seamless connectivity between machines, systems, and personnel, driving operational efficiency and agility in manufacturing processes.

Another key opportunity for the MES market is the increasing adoption of cloud-based solutions among manufacturers. The shift toward cloud computing is revolutionizing how organizations manage their manufacturing operations, providing scalable and cost-effective options for implementing MES. This trend is particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the resources for extensive on-premise systems. The ability to access MES solutions through the cloud enables these manufacturers to leverage advanced technologies without significant upfront investments, fostering innovation and competitiveness. Additionally, as more manufacturers prioritize sustainability and environmentally friendly practices, MES solutions that support energy management and waste reduction initiatives present substantial growth opportunities. By focusing on sustainability, MES providers can attract a broader customer base and align their offerings with evolving industry standards.

Threats

Despite the promising growth trajectory of the Manufacturing Execution System market, several threats could pose challenges to its expansion. One of the primary threats is the rapid pace of technological change, which necessitates continuous innovation and adaptation by MES providers. As new technologies emerge, existing MES solutions may quickly become outdated, requiring significant investments in research and development to stay competitive. Additionally, the fragmented nature of the MES market, with numerous players offering various solutions, can create confusion for manufacturers seeking to select the right system for their needs. The lack of standardization across MES offerings may lead to integration challenges, hindering the overall effectiveness of the systems. Furthermore, cybersecurity risks are an increasing concern as manufacturers become more reliant on digital technologies. The potential for cyberattacks on manufacturing systems can result in production downtime, data breaches, and substantial financial losses, making it imperative for MES providers to prioritize robust security measures.

Another threat to the MES market is the potential for economic fluctuations that can impact manufacturing activities. Economic downturns may lead manufacturers to reduce investments in technology, including MES solutions, as they prioritize cost-cutting measures. Additionally, the ongoing supply chain disruptions experienced globally could hinder the implementation of MES systems, as manufacturers struggle to secure the necessary components and resources. Furthermore, the resistance to change within some organizations can impede the adoption of MES technologies, particularly among traditional manufacturers who may be hesitant to embrace digital transformation. Addressing these threats will require MES providers to remain agile, responsive to market dynamics, and focused on delivering value to their customers.

Competitor Outlook

• Siemens AG
• Rockwell Automation Inc.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Dassault Systèmes
• Schneider Electric
• Oracle Corporation
• GE Digital
• SAP SE
• Emerson Electric Co.
• AVEVA Group plc
• Cimpress
• IBM Corporation
• Digital Solutions by Siemens
• Infor
• ADLINK Technology Inc.

The competitive landscape of the Manufacturing Execution System market is characterized by a diverse range of players offering a variety of solutions to meet the unique needs of manufacturers across different industries. Major companies such as Siemens AG, Rockwell Automation, and Honeywell International have established themselves as leading providers of MES solutions, leveraging their extensive experience in automation and manufacturing technologies. These companies are continually investing in research and development to enhance their offerings, focusing on integrating advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and cloud computing into their MES solutions. The emphasis on innovation and providing end-to-end solutions is driving competition within the market, as manufacturers seek comprehensive systems that can seamlessly integrate with their existing operations.

Additionally, smaller and niche players are emerging in the MES market, focusing on catering to specific industry segments or developing specialized solutions. Companies like Dassault Systèmes and AVEVA Group plc are gaining traction by offering tailored MES solutions that address the unique challenges faced by specific sectors such as pharmaceuticals and food and beverages. These players are capitalizing on their industry expertise and agile development processes to provide innovative solutions that resonate with manufacturers looking for agility and adaptability in their manufacturing operations. As competition intensifies, collaboration between MES providers and manufacturers is becoming increasingly important, as both parties work together to identify and implement solutions that drive operational excellence.

Furthermore, partnerships and collaborations are a growing trend within the Manufacturing Execution System market, as companies seek to combine their strengths to create more comprehensive solutions. For instance, collaborations between MES providers and cloud service providers enable the development of cloud-based MES solutions that offer scalability and flexibility to manufacturers. As the market evolves, strategic alliances will play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape, allowing companies to enhance their offerings and expand their market presence. Ultimately, the MES market is poised for continued growth and innovation as manufacturers increasingly recognize the value of these systems in driving efficiency and quality in their production processes.

• 1 Appendix

  • 1.1 List of Tables
  • 1.2 List of Figures

• 2 Introduction

  • 2.1 Market Definition
  • 2.2 Scope of the Report
  • 2.3 Study Assumptions
  • 2.4 Base Currency & Forecast Periods

• 3 Market Dynamics

  • 3.1 Market Growth Factors
  • 3.2 Economic & Global Events
  • 3.3 Innovation Trends
  • 3.4 Supply Chain Analysis

• 4 Consumer Behavior

  • 4.1 Market Trends
  • 4.2 Pricing Analysis
  • 4.3 Buyer Insights

• 5 Key Player Profiles

  • 5.1 Infor
    • 5.1.1 Business Overview
    • 5.1.2 Products & Services
    • 5.1.3 Financials
    • 5.1.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.1.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.2 SAP SE
    • 5.2.1 Business Overview
    • 5.2.2 Products & Services
    • 5.2.3 Financials
    • 5.2.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.2.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.3 Cimpress
    • 5.3.1 Business Overview
    • 5.3.2 Products & Services
    • 5.3.3 Financials
    • 5.3.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.3.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.4 GE Digital
    • 5.4.1 Business Overview
    • 5.4.2 Products & Services
    • 5.4.3 Financials
    • 5.4.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.4.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.5 Siemens AG
    • 5.5.1 Business Overview
    • 5.5.2 Products & Services
    • 5.5.3 Financials
    • 5.5.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.5.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.6 AVEVA Group plc
    • 5.6.1 Business Overview
    • 5.6.2 Products & Services
    • 5.6.3 Financials
    • 5.6.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.6.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.7 IBM Corporation
    • 5.7.1 Business Overview
    • 5.7.2 Products & Services
    • 5.7.3 Financials
    • 5.7.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.7.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.8 Oracle Corporation
    • 5.8.1 Business Overview
    • 5.8.2 Products & Services
    • 5.8.3 Financials
    • 5.8.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.8.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.9 Schneider Electric
    • 5.9.1 Business Overview
    • 5.9.2 Products & Services
    • 5.9.3 Financials
    • 5.9.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.9.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.10 Emerson Electric Co.
    • 5.10.1 Business Overview
    • 5.10.2 Products & Services
    • 5.10.3 Financials
    • 5.10.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.10.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.11 ADLINK Technology Inc.
    • 5.11.1 Business Overview
    • 5.11.2 Products & Services
    • 5.11.3 Financials
    • 5.11.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.11.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.12 Dassault Systèmes
    • 5.12.1 Business Overview
    • 5.12.2 Products & Services
    • 5.12.3 Financials
    • 5.12.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.12.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.13 Rockwell Automation Inc.
    • 5.13.1 Business Overview
    • 5.13.2 Products & Services
    • 5.13.3 Financials
    • 5.13.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.13.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.14 Digital Solutions by Siemens
    • 5.14.1 Business Overview
    • 5.14.2 Products & Services
    • 5.14.3 Financials
    • 5.14.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.14.5 SWOT Analysis
  • 5.15 Honeywell International Inc.
    • 5.15.1 Business Overview
    • 5.15.2 Products & Services
    • 5.15.3 Financials
    • 5.15.4 Recent Developments
    • 5.15.5 SWOT Analysis

• 6 Market Segmentation

  • 6.1 Manufacturing Execution System Market, By Offering
    • 6.1.1 Software
    • 6.1.2 Services
  • 6.2 Manufacturing Execution System Market, By Deployment
    • 6.2.1 On-premise
    • 6.2.2 Cloud-based
  • 6.3 Manufacturing Execution System Market, By Process Industry
    • 6.3.1 Food & Beverages
    • 6.3.2 Pharmaceuticals
    • 6.3.3 Chemicals
    • 6.3.4 Automotive
    • 6.3.5 Electronics
    • 6.3.6 Others
  • 6.4 Manufacturing Execution System Market, By Discrete Industry
    • 6.4.1 Automotive
    • 6.4.2 Aerospace & Defense
    • 6.4.3 Machinery
    • 6.4.4 Electronics
    • 6.4.5 Others

• 7 Competitive Analysis

  • 7.1 Key Player Comparison
  • 7.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 7.3 Investment Trends
  • 7.4 SWOT Analysis

• 8 Research Methodology

  • 8.1 Analysis Design
  • 8.2 Research Phases
  • 8.3 Study Timeline

• 9 Future Market Outlook

  • 9.1 Growth Forecast
  • 9.2 Market Evolution

• 10 Geographical Overview

  • 10.1 Europe - Market Analysis
    • 10.1.1 By Country
      • 10.1.1.1 UK
      • 10.1.1.2 France
      • 10.1.1.3 Germany
      • 10.1.1.4 Spain
      • 10.1.1.5 Italy
  • 10.2 Asia Pacific - Market Analysis
    • 10.2.1 By Country
      • 10.2.1.1 India
      • 10.2.1.2 China
      • 10.2.1.3 Japan
      • 10.2.1.4 South Korea
  • 10.3 Latin America - Market Analysis
    • 10.3.1 By Country
      • 10.3.1.1 Brazil
      • 10.3.1.2 Argentina
      • 10.3.1.3 Mexico
  • 10.4 North America - Market Analysis
    • 10.4.1 By Country
      • 10.4.1.1 USA
      • 10.4.1.2 Canada
  • 10.5 Middle East & Africa - Market Analysis
    • 10.5.1 By Country
      • 10.5.1.1 Middle East
      • 10.5.1.2 Africa
  • 10.6 Manufacturing Execution System Market by Region

• 11 Global Economic Factors

  • 11.1 Inflation Impact
  • 11.2 Trade Policies

• 12 Technology & Innovation

  • 12.1 Emerging Technologies
  • 12.2 AI & Digital Trends
  • 12.3 Patent Research

• 13 Investment & Market Growth

  • 13.1 Funding Trends
  • 13.2 Future Market Projections

• 14 Market Overview & Key Insights

  • 14.1 Executive Summary
  • 14.2 Key Trends
  • 14.3 Market Challenges
  • 14.4 Regulatory Landscape

Segments Analyzed in the Report

The global Manufacturing Execution System market is categorized based on

By Offering

• Software
• Services

By Deployment

• On-premise
• Cloud-based

By Process Industry

• Food & Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals
• Chemicals
• Automotive
• Electronics
• Others

By Discrete Industry

• Automotive
• Aerospace & Defense
• Machinery
• Electronics
• Others

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa

Key Players

• Siemens AG
• Rockwell Automation Inc.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Dassault Systèmes
• Schneider Electric
• Oracle Corporation
• GE Digital
• SAP SE
• Emerson Electric Co.
• AVEVA Group plc
• Cimpress
• IBM Corporation
• Digital Solutions by Siemens
• Infor
• ADLINK Technology Inc.