This paper discusses the issues typically occurring when integrating, into a single product, functions that can only be realised by employing different length scale features (macro, meso, micro and down to nano). Following the responses of a survey performed on European research projects, a trend for replacing assembly steps with multi-scale processing of single components is highlighted. Two main issues emerging from the implementation of such approach are then discussed. The first one relates to the concurrent design of materials properties and manufacturing processes. The second focuses on the need for new production approaches and organisational models applied by companies.