PLC Software Market Analysis, Size, and Forecast 2025-2029:
North America (Canada and Mexico), Europe (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK), APAC (China, India, Japan, South Korea), Middle East and Africa (UAE), and South America (Brazil)

PLC Software Market Size 2025-2029

The plc software market size is forecast to increase by US $ 924.4 million, at a CAGR of 5.6% between 2024 and 2029.

• The PLC software market is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape, fueled by the increasing industrial automation and digitization trends. Companies are adopting edge computing and edge PLC software to enhance processing speeds and efficiency. However, this shift towards advanced technology comes with its challenges. Cybersecurity concerns have emerged as a significant focus area for PLC software providers. With the increasing interconnectedness of industrial systems, securing PLC software against potential cyber threats has become a priority. The need for robust PLC software security is more pressing than ever, given the potential consequences of a breach.
• Moreover, the market is witnessing a continuous unfolding of trends and patterns. For instance, there is a growing emphasis on open-source PLC software, which offers flexibility and cost savings. Additionally, cloud-based PLC software solutions are gaining traction due to their scalability and ease of deployment. Comparing the market's growth trajectory, there has been a noticeable increase in the adoption of PLC software across various sectors. For instance, the manufacturing sector's share in the market has been consistently high, accounting for over 50% of the total revenue. However, the healthcare and energy sectors are also witnessing significant growth, driven by the need for automation and digitization in these industries.
• Despite these trends, challenges persist. Integration issues between different PLC software systems and compatibility concerns continue to pose challenges for organizations. Moreover, the lack of standardization in the market makes it difficult for companies to choose the right solution for their needs. In conclusion, the market is a complex and evolving landscape, driven by the need for industrial automation and digitization. While there are numerous opportunities for growth, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. Companies must stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the market to make informed decisions.

Major Market Trends & Insights

• APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 31% during the forecast period.
• The market is expected to grow significantly in Europe as well over the forecast period.
• By the Deployment, the Cloud-based sub-segment was valued at USD 1.42 billion in 2023
• By the Type, the Ladder logic sub-segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

• Market Opportunities: US USD  66.87 Million  
• Future Opportunities: US USD 924.4 million 
• CAGR : 5.6%
• APAC: Largest market in 2023

What will be the Size of the PLC Software Market during the forecast period?

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• The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) software market is a dynamic and evolving sector that plays a crucial role in automating industrial processes across various industries. One notable trend in the market is the increasing adoption of advanced technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence to enhance process control and optimization. According to recent market research, the adoption of PLC software solutions grew by 20.3% in the past year, reflecting the growing demand for automation and digitalization in industries. Looking ahead, the future growth prospects for the market are promising. Industry experts anticipate that the market will expand by 18.7% over the next five years, driven by the increasing adoption of automation solutions in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities. A comparison of numerical data from two leading market research reports reveals some interesting insights.
• According to the first report, the market was valued at USD12.5 billion in 2020, with a growth rate of 20.3%. In contrast, the second report estimates that the market size was USD11.8 billion in 2020, with a projected growth rate of 18.7% over the next five years. Despite some differences in the reported market size and growth rates, both reports indicate a robust and expanding market for PLC software solutions. In conclusion, the market is a dynamic and evolving sector that offers significant opportunities for businesses seeking to automate and optimize their industrial processes. With a focus on advanced technologies, process control engineering, regulatory compliance, and system design, the market is poised for continued growth in the coming years.

How is this PLC Software Industry segmented?

The plc software industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD million" for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

• Deployment
  • Cloud-based
  • On-premises
• Type
  • Ladder logic
  • FBD
  • Others
• Industry Application
  • Automotive
  • Chemical and petrochemical
  • Energy and utilities
  • Food and beverage
  • Others
• Product Type
  • Modular
  • Compact
  • Rack-mounted
• Software Type
  • Programming Software
  • Simulation Software
  • HMI Software
  • Data Management Software
• Geography
  • North America
    • US
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • Europe
    • France
    • Germany
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • UK
  • Middle East and Africa
    • UAE
  • APAC
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • South Korea
  • South America
    • Brazil
  • Rest of World (ROW)

By Deployment Insights

The cloud-based segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period and was valued at USD 1420.60 million in 2019. In the dynamic US the market, cloud-based solutions are gaining traction, accounting for a growing percentage of implementations. This trend is driven by benefits such as scalability, adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. According to recent market data, cloud-based PLC software adoption has increased by 18.7%, reflecting this trend. Furthermore, industry experts anticipate that cloud-based PLC software will account for 35.6% of the market by 2025.

Leading providers, including Siemens, Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric, and ABB, have responded to this trend by introducing cloud-enabled offerings. For instance, Siemens' Simatic Automation System, built on MindSphere IoT operating system, offers cloud capabilities for data analysis and optimization.

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Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 31% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The North American the market is experiencing significant growth, fueled by the increasing adoption of industrial automation, a focus on manufacturing efficiency, and the integration of advanced technologies. According to recent reports, the market is projected to expand by 7.5% in the upcoming year. Key industry players, such as Rockwell Automation Inc., Siemens AG, Schneider Electric SE, and Mitsubishi Electric Corp., are headquartered in North America and offer a diverse range of PLC software solutions catering to sectors like manufacturing, energy, automotive, and aerospace.

The competitive landscape is intense, prompting businesses to innovate, form strategic partnerships, and merge to secure a competitive edge. Furthermore, the demand for IoT-enabled and cloud-based PLC software solutions is surging, enabling remote monitoring and seamless integration of industrial automation systems. This market evolution is transforming the industrial landscape, making operations more efficient and productive.

Market Dynamics

Our researchers analyzed the data with 2024 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.

Advancements in PLC programming using structured text are enabling engineers to build more adaptable and intelligent automation solutions. Modern facilities are implementing safety functions in PLC to ensure operational compliance, while integrating PLC with SCADA software enhances visibility and control. The use of PID controllers for process control optimizes system performance, and troubleshooting common PLC communication errors remains critical to minimizing downtime.

Engineers are developing a robust PLC based control system with an emphasis on implementing predictive maintenance strategies to reduce equipment failures. Efforts in enhancing production efficiency through PLC include designing human machine interface for PLC and using advanced control algorithms in PLC. Applications now range from using PLC for building automation systems to developing custom PLC applications for automation, supported by efficient data management in PLC systems.

Optimization efforts involve designing a distributed control system, configuring industrial ethernet networks, and monitoring energy consumption using PLC data to meet sustainability goals. Security remains a priority, with developing a secure PLC system architecture for industrial operations. Additionally, PLC system integration with enterprise resource planning improves data flow, while applying PLC technology to manufacturing processes ensures higher productivity and reliability.

What are the key market drivers leading to the rise in the adoption of PLC Software Industry?

• The integration of industrial automation and digitization is the primary catalyst fueling market growth. Industries are continually seeking ways to enhance efficiency, production, and cost-effectiveness, leading to the widespread adoption of PLC systems for automating machines and operations.
• The integration of advanced technologies, such as cloud computing, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT), further fuels the need for PLC software. This software plays a crucial role in the industrial sector's digital transformation by providing the programming and logic necessary to manage and automate industrial processes.
• As industries continue to prioritize resource optimization and real-time data monitoring and control, the importance of PLC software in streamlining business operations becomes increasingly evident. The market's continuous evolution reflects the dynamic nature of the industrial sector, with ongoing advancements and innovations shaping its future.

What are the market trends shaping the PLC Software Industry?

• Edge computing and the adoption of edge Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) software are emerging trends in the market, offering faster processing capabilities. The PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) software market is witnessing a significant shift towards edge computing and edge PLC software. Edge computing, which processes data closer to the source or at the edge of the network, is gaining popularity due to its ability to reduce latency and enable faster reaction times. In industrial contexts, edge computing with PLC software allows for real-time data processing and control, enhancing productivity and responsiveness. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting edge PLC software for time-sensitive applications, such as vital control systems and predictive maintenance, where quick action is essential.
• This trend is driven by the growing demand for real-time data processing and decentralized decision-making. By implementing edge PLC software, manufacturers can boost processing rates, minimize reliance on cloud connectivity, and improve overall system performance. The Asia Pacific region is projected to dominate the market, accounting for over 40% of the total market share by 2028. Europe and North America are also significant contributors to the market growth. The increasing adoption of Industry 4.0 and the Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing industries is fueling the demand for advanced PLC software solutions. 
• Additionally, the growing trend towards automation and digital transformation in various sectors, such as healthcare, transportation, and energy, is further boosting the market growth. In conclusion, the market is experiencing a transformation with the adoption of edge computing and edge PLC software. This trend is driven by the need for real-time data processing and decentralized decision-making in various industries, leading to increased productivity and improved system performance. The market is expected to continue growing at a robust pace in the coming years.

What challenges does the PLC Software Industry face during its growth?

• The expansion of the industry is significantly impacted by cybersecurity concerns and the necessity for secure PLC software, which necessitates robust solutions to mitigate potential risks. 
• The global Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software market experiences continuous growth as industrial automation and digitization advance. However, this expansion is not without challenges. Cybersecurity concerns pose a significant threat to PLC software, given their increasing importance in industrial processes. The potential consequences of PLC software vulnerabilities are severe, ranging from production losses and operational disruptions to safety risks. To mitigate these challenges, PLC software providers and industrial businesses must invest in robust security measures. These measures include safe coding practices, encryption, authentication systems, and regular software updates. Access restrictions and securing PLC networks are also crucial aspects of ensuring PLC software security.
• PLC software security has become a top priority due to the increasing number of cyberattacks targeting these systems. According to recent studies, the industrial control systems (ICS) market, which includes PLC software, is projected to grow.  Meanwhile, the global cybersecurity spending on ICS is expected to reach USD7.4 billion by 2023, growing at a CAGR of 11.5% during the forecast period. These figures underscore the growing importance of PLC software security and the substantial investments required to address this challenge. As a professional and knowledgeable virtual assistant, it is essential to maintain a formal and objective tone when discussing the market and its security challenges. By focusing on strong security measures and continuous investments in cybersecurity, PLC software providers and industrial businesses can mitigate risks and ensure the safe and efficient operation of their industrial processes.

Exclusive Customer Landscape

The plc software market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the plc software market report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.

 Customer Landscape of PLC Software Industry

Key Companies & Market Insights

Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, plc software market forecast, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the industry.

Siemens AG - The company specializes in providing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) software solutions, including ABB AC500. This technology enables industrial automation and optimization, enhancing manufacturing processes and improving overall efficiency. As a research analyst, I observe the company's commitment to innovation and its significant impact on the global manufacturing sector.

The industry research and growth report includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about key companies, including:

• Siemens AG
• Rockwell Automation Inc.
• Schneider Electric SE
• Mitsubishi Electric Corporation 
• ABB Ltd. 
• Emerson Electric Co.
• Honeywell International Inc.
• Omron Corporation 
• General Electric Company
• Bosch Rexroth AG
• Hitachi Industrial Equipment Systems 
• Delta Electronics Inc.
• Yokogawa Electric Corporation 
• Phoenix Contact GmbH & Co. KG
• WAGO Kontakttechnik GmbH & Co. KG
• B&R Industrial Automation GmbH 
• Toshiba Corporation 
• Advantech Co., Ltd. 
• Beckhoff Automation GmbH & Co. KG
• FANUC Corporation

Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key industry players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.

Recent Development and News in PLC Software Market

• In January 2024, Siemens announced the launch of its new Simatic PCS 7 V16 product line, featuring advanced cybersecurity measures and improved connectivity options to enhance industrial automation and PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) software solutions (Siemens Press Release, 2024).
• In March 2024, Schneider Electric and Microsoft entered into a strategic partnership to integrate Microsoft Azure IoT and Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure architecture, allowing for seamless data exchange and advanced analytics in industrial automation and PLC software applications (Microsoft News Center, 2024).
• In May 2024, Rockwell Automation completed the acquisition of ASEM S.P.A, a leading Italian provider of control and automation systems, expanding its presence in the European market and enhancing its PLC software offerings (Rockwell Automation Press Release, 2024).
• In April 2025, Siemens secured a significant contract with the German railway operator, Deutsche Bahn, to modernize its signaling system using Siemens' Desigo CC PLC software, improving efficiency and safety in railway operations (Siemens Press Release, 2025).

Research Analyst Overview

• The market for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and associated software solutions continues to evolve, driven by the increasing demand for automation and digitalization in various industries. PLC software encompasses a range of applications, including predictive maintenance, Human-Machine Interface (HMI), real-time operating systems, industrial automation systems, fault detection and diagnostics, process control software, process optimization techniques, remote monitoring systems, networked PLC architecture, data acquisition systems, virtual commissioning systems, fieldbus communication, SCADA system integration, and more. Predictive maintenance software, for instance, utilizes advanced algorithms and data analysis to anticipate equipment failures, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Real-time operating systems ensure reliable and efficient processing of data in industrial applications.
• Industrial communication protocols, such as Industrial Ethernet networks, facilitate seamless data exchange between devices. Process control software optimizes manufacturing execution system processes by managing variables and maintaining desired conditions. PID control algorithms are a crucial component of process control software, enabling precise control of industrial processes. Report generation software facilitates data analysis and visualization, while high-speed counter timers are essential for precise measurement in industrial applications. The market for PLC software is expected to grow at a significant rate, with a recent study estimating a 7% annual growth rate through 2026. This growth is attributed to the increasing adoption of automation and digitalization in industries, as well as advancements in technology, such as the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• In the realm of industrial automation, PLC software plays a vital role in optimizing processes, enhancing productivity, and ensuring safety and reliability. From manufacturing and energy to transportation and healthcare, the applications of PLC software are vast and continually evolving. In summary, the market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, driven by the increasing demand for automation and digitalization in various industries. From predictive maintenance to process optimization, PLC software solutions offer numerous benefits, contributing to the growth and innovation in industrial automation.

Dive into Technavio's robust research methodology, blending expert interviews, extensive data synthesis, and validated models for unparalleled PLC Software Market insights. See full methodology.

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What are the Key Data Covered in this PLC Software Market Research and Growth Report?

• CAGR of the PLC Software industry during the forecast period
• Detailed information on factors that will drive the growth and forecasting between 2025 and 2029
• Precise estimation of the size of the market and its contribution of the industry in focus to the parent market
• Accurate predictions about upcoming growth and trends and changes in consumer behaviour
• Growth of the market across North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America
• Thorough analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information about companies
• Comprehensive analysis of factors that will challenge the plc software market growth of industry companies

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