Industry14 November 2026

Only 2% of COOs have AI embedded across operations: nearly 60% lack a value target

McKinsey's COO100 survey finds only 2% of large-manufacturer COOs have AI fully embedded, and nearly 60% have no clear targets to measure AI value. Where targets exist, almost two-thirds meet or exceed them.

McKinsey's COO100 survey (101 senior operating executives at organizations with at least $1 billion in revenue, fielded June-July 2025, published December 2025) finds that about two-thirds of COOs still describe AI as being in exploration or targeted implementation. Only about one-third are starting to scale, and only 2% say AI is fully embedded across operations.

The spending intent is strong: 93% plan to spend more on digital and AI over the next five years, and almost one-third intend to spend at least 5% of cost of goods sold. The governance is weaker. Nearly 60% lack clear targets for measuring AI value, yet where such targets exist, nearly two-thirds of companies meet or exceed them. Half cite cultural change as a major barrier and 46% cite data or IT/OT system limitations.

A July 2026 study by the Manufacturers Alliance Foundation with Roland Berger (100+ mid- to large-cap manufacturing leaders) points the same way: nearly two-thirds said significant data clean-up was needed before launching AI initiatives. The economic reading is simple: money without a target is an option with no exercise date. Targets turn spending into a decision.

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Analysis by

Cardan-AI Intelligence

Our research and analysis unit, dedicated to applied AI for business, industry and regulatory compliance.

Sources

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