The robotics industry is experiencing significant growth and expansion, with a projected global growth rate of 17.64% from $114.7 billion in 2023 to an estimated $258.3 billion in 2028. The Asian Pacific market remains the largest market within the industry, while the North American market is the fastest growing. The demand for robots has been driven by investments in new car production facilities and the modernization of industrial facilities.
The definition of a robot has evolved over time, leading to a diverse range of technologies within the industry. From goods-to-person systems to autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), there are specialized devices designed for specific transport applications. This shift allows for easier, scalable, and flexible plug-and-play solutions.
In terms of the current state of automation, there are two notable trends. First, there is a continuous increase in the number of robotics deployments in the distribution and warehousing vertical. Second, research and development efforts are creating new types of robotic solutions for various operational needs. While some offerings, such as AMRs, have become mature and trusted deployments, others are still in development depending on their specific application.
The recent slowdown in warehouse investments has affected new automation projects to some extent. Fixed warehouse automation solutions have slowed due to capital expenditure limitations faced by retailers and manufacturers. However, there is a growing interest in more scalable and cost-effective technologies like mobile automation, which offer swift deployment and a rapid return on investment.
For companies just starting their automation journey, the easiest operations to automate are those that involve monotonous and hard-to-staff processes that don’t require dynamic decision-making. By automating these operations, companies can improve employee safety, job satisfaction, and the bottom line. These automation efforts can reduce production costs, save time on onboarding new employees, and allocate existing employees to more challenging tasks.
Regarding the level of skills needed for workers interacting with the new automated systems, there is a variety of perspectives. Some argue that automation doesn’t significantly impact the skills required, as current associates are already familiar with technologies like conveyors and RF devices. The introduction of automation expands the range of tasks for workers, shifting their focus to controlling and monitoring the automation processes.
In conclusion, the robotics industry is experiencing substantial growth driven by investments in car production facilities and industrial modernization. Automation projects are on the rise, especially in distribution and warehousing. Companies looking to venture into automation should start by automating monotonous processes, while considering the specific needs, budget, and complexity of the tasks. The introduction of automation technologies may impact the skills needed for workers, but it can also simplify the interaction between associates and the systems, leveraging their familiarity with existing technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the projected growth rate for the robotics industry?
A: The robotics industry is projected to grow globally at a rate of 17.64% from $114.7 billion in 2023 to an estimated $258.3 billion in 2028.
Q: What are the easiest operations to automate for companies starting their automation journey?
A: The easiest operations to automate are the monotonous, hard-to-staff processes that don’t require dynamic decision-making. By automating these operations, companies can improve employee safety, job satisfaction, and reduce production costs.
Q: How has the recent slowdown in warehouse investments affected new automation projects?
A: While fixed warehouse automation solutions have slowed due to capital expenditure limitations, there is a growing interest in more scalable and cost-effective technologies like mobile automation, which offer swift deployment and a rapid return on investment.
Q: Does a move to automation change the level of skills needed for workers?
A: The impact on the level of skills needed varies. Some argue that automation doesn’t significantly change the required skills, as current associates are already familiar with technologies like conveyors and RF devices. However, the introduction of automation expands the range of tasks, shifting the focus to controlling and monitoring the automation processes.