Charting the Future: What lies ahead for medical device manufacturers in 2026

By Paul Spencer, President of Biomedical at dsm-firmenich

As 2026 begins, medical device manufacturers are entering a period of extraordinary opportunity alongside increasing complexity. Shifting patient expectations, heightened regulatory scrutiny, and more sophisticated device architectures are reshaping how innovation must occur. In this environment, the role of biomaterials and the partners who provide them has never been more critical.

At Biomedical, we stand at the forefront of this transformation. In 2026 and beyond, our focus is on aligning deep scientific and engineering expertise with the evolving priorities of our MedTech and Medical Device manufacturing partners. By helping them navigate complexity while creating a meaningful impact on global healthcare we’ll be able to continue to elevate health, together.

From materials to meaningful partnerships

The future of biomaterials is no longer defined by incremental enhancement alone. It is defined by integration, collaboration, and shared accountability. Medical device manufacturers increasingly seek partners who can move at the pace of innovation and contribute as true co-developers not simply suppliers.

This shift is being accelerated by global trade headwinds, including tariffs, regionalization of supply chains, and heightened expectations around sourcing resilience. In response, partnerships must extend beyond materials performance to include supply continuity, geographic flexibility, and long-term risk mitigation. Strategic collaboration enables manufacturers to adapt faster, de-risk development, and build resilience into their innovation pipelines from the outset.

Addressing emerging healthcare needs

In 2026, evolving healthcare trends will continue to create both challenges and opportunities for biomaterials innovation. The growing focus on metabolic health driven by the widespread adoption of GLP-1 therapies and continuous glucose monitoring underscores the need for devices that support long-term use, improved outcomes, and better quality of life.

Advanced biomaterials will play a central role in enabling this progress. From bioresorbable platforms and energy-compatible materials to coatings that improve healing and reduce adverse responses, these innovations are designed to optimize device–tissue interaction and long-term performance. Their potential to positively impact patients across demographics and geographies is significant.

Delivering value beyond material supply

 As we look ahead, the most valued biomaterials partners will be those that contribute across the entire device lifecycle. This includes early-stage materials selection, concept and feasibility testing, regulatory strategy, and scalable manufacturing support extending well beyond initial product delivery.

At dsm-firmenich, leadership in biomaterials means advancing beyond traditional supply models to offer a comprehensive ecosystem of support. Our teams combine technical excellence, regulatory insight, and operational resilience to help partners innovate, navigate approval pathways more effectively, and help improve patient lives. This integrated approach positions us to shape the next generation of medical devices with lasting impact.

Shaping the road ahead

To succeed in 2026 and beyond, medical device manufacturers and biomaterials suppliers must prioritize resilience, collaboration, and accountability. Devices will continue to become more specialized, biologically integrated, and technologically advanced, making biomaterials not just a component of innovation but a foundation for it.

At dsm-firmenich, we are ready to meet this challenge head-on. By fostering true partnerships grounded in shared goals and visionary thinking, we’re enabling our partners to build devices that exceed expectations and set new standards for patient care.

The question is no longer what biomaterials can do but rather what we can achieve together.