Crystal engineering has become an established part in various segments of industrial research. The toolbox of crystal engineering not only offers design strategies for performance chemicals and characterization tools for active ingredients but also helps to provide fundamental concepts for understanding the principles behind the formation and properties of organic solids. In this highlight examples are given for the application of crystal engineering during different phases of development of various industrial products, e.g. pigments, dyes, agrochemicals and drugs. In addition, future needs and possible development trends in crystal engineering are discussed with a special emphasis on novel innovative materials.