The Manufacturing Performance Excellence (MPE) study conducted by Arthur D. Little in collaboration with the University of St. Gallen aims to identify best practices in manufacturing that lead to superior performance. The study identifies six key areas where companies can optimize their manufacturing operations to achieve excellence: quality, productivity, efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness, and innovation. The study also identifies future challenges in manufacturing, such as increased competition from low-cost countries, changing customer demands, and the need for more complex products and variations. The study is regularly updated to ensure that it remains relevant to the current state of manufacturing. Overall, the MPE study provides valuable insights into how companies can achieve and maintain excellence in their manufacturing operations.