The Challenges of Industry 4.0 for Small and Medium Enterprises in Poland and Slovakia

In the paper an analysis of the state of preparation of small and medium-sized enterprises in the metal industry in Poland and Slovakia was presented. Based on the conducted surveys, the challenges of industry 4.0, which will have to be met by small and medium enterprises, have been identified. Opportunities and threats for enterprises from the SME sector have been also defined. It was found that the biggest threats was lack of capital and lack of appropriate specialists, as well as high costs of staff preparation. Opportunities for enterprises are increased productivity and productivity, faster response to changes to customer requirements.