Single Pair Ethernet networks merge into one global association

Two industrial networking groups have объединed as the Single Pair Ethernet Association to speed standardization and adoption of Single Pair Ethernet for industrial communication, automation and IIoT. The new group debuted at IMTS in Chicago and will appear at major trade shows in Shanghai and Nuremberg later this year.

Why it matters: - The merger creates a single industry voice for Single Pair Ethernet, a technology meant to simplify industrial connectivity. - The combined group represents members from more than 130 manufacturing and technology companies worldwide. - The new association is designed to speed development, standardization and global market adoption of SPE for industrial communication, automation and IIoT. - SPE can help cut wiring complexity by sending data over one twisted pair instead of the two or four pairs used in traditional Ethernet. - The technology is positioned for industrial settings where weight, space or cost are key constraints.

What happened: - Single Pair Ethernet System Alliance and SPE Industrial Partner Network merged to form the Single Pair Ethernet Association. - The announcement was made Sept. 14, 2026, at the International Manufacturing Technology Show in Chicago. - Leadership from both networks approved the merger unanimously. - Existing members from both organizations were integrated into the new association. - The new group is presenting itself at IMTS Booth #236134 in the North Building, Level 3.

The details: - The association says it will combine expertise, activities and memberships under one identity. - The goal is to build momentum for SPE technology across industrial communication and automation markets. - The new group wants to strengthen global visibility for SPE-enabled industrial automation. - The association also plans to support an industry, user and research forum. - That forum is intended to align technical content, market activities and international initiatives. - Nick Sandoval, president of the SPE Association’s North American Marketing Council, said the merger begins a new chapter in industry collaboration. - Sandoval said a single global entity can help manufacturers pursue simpler architectures, greater interoperability and a more connected future. - More information is available at the association's website.

Between the lines: - The merger signals a push to reduce fragmentation in a niche industrial technology market. - A unified association can make it easier to promote shared standards and present SPE as ready for broader deployment. - The timing at IMTS suggests the group wants to reach manufacturers while automation buying plans are top of mind.

What's next: - The SPE Association will make additional trade show appearances at IAS in Shanghai from Oct. 12-16, 2026. - The association will also appear at SPS in Nuremberg from Nov. 24-26, 2026. - The group is expected to use these events to broaden awareness and accelerate adoption of SPE technology.

The bottom line: - Two long-running SPE networks are now one, and the new association is betting that scale and coordination will help industrial Ethernet gain faster traction.