PTC launches AI-powered FlexPLM capabilities at NRF 2026
Boston, Jan. 6, 2026 - PTC (NASDAQ: PTC) announced new AI capabilities for its FlexPLM retail PLM solution that automate tech pack creation, one of the most time-consuming and error-prone parts of product development. The update will debut at NRF's Retail's Big Show, January 11-13 in New York City.
Why it matters for product development teams
Turning design sketches into production-ready specs has long been a manual grind, with data re-entry, handoffs, and preventable mistakes. FlexPLM's AI-generated tech packs cut that loop.
- Automatically extracts data from design drawings
- Instantly populates BOMs, measurements, construction details, attributes, and colorways
- Reduces errors and rework while lowering development costs
- Speeds sampling, costing, and response to shifting demand
How the AI tech pack generation works
The system reads design inputs and structures them into standardized product data-no copy/paste, no spreadsheet shuffle. BOM components, measurement pages, and construction notes are auto-filled and consistent across styles and seasons.
That consistency means fewer back-and-forths between design and development, cleaner handoffs to suppliers, and tighter timelines from concept to sample. Your team spends less time fixing data and more time validating product decisions.
The bigger picture: Intelligent Product Lifecycle
This launch extends PTC's Intelligent Product Lifecycle strategy: unifying AI with structured product data to improve decisions, streamline workflows, and boost productivity across the lifecycle. The same data foundation supports supply chain visibility and sustainability initiatives, so progress in one area benefits the rest.
See it at NRF 2026
PTC will showcase live demos at Booth #3346 covering AI-powered product development, supply chain visibility, and how FlexPLM helps address sustainability and regulatory requirements. If you're attending, plan 15-20 minutes to see a full tech pack flow from sketch to sample-ready specs.
NRF Retail's Big Show
Learn more about FlexPLM
Practical next steps for your team
- Map your current tech pack workflow and flag repetitive data entry and frequent error points.
- List the design inputs (sketches, CAD, measurements) and where that data needs to land (BOM, construction, attributes).
- Set simple success metrics: error rate, sample cycle time, cost per style, first-pass yield.
- Pilot on a focused category to validate gains before wider rollout.
- Plan supplier onboarding early so external partners adopt the same data standards.
If you're leveling up team skills around AI in product workflows, explore curated training by job role: Complete AI Training.
What PTC says
"Bringing AI to FlexPLM is about more than automation; it's a fundamental shift in how product development teams work," said Kyle Marden, General Manager of PTC's Retail Business Unit. "By enabling reduced manual effort and an accelerated path from concept to sample, intelligent Retail PLM can help brands move faster and respond with greater confidence."
About PTC
PTC (NASDAQ: PTC) is a global software company that helps manufacturers and product companies transform how they design, manufacture, and service physical products. Headquartered in Boston, PTC employs over 7,000 people and supports more than 30,000 customers worldwide.
PTC, FlexPLM and the PTC logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of PTC Inc. and its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.
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