The UK currently ranks 24th in the world for automation and robotics adoption. We asked Oliver Selby, Chairman of BARA (British Automation and Robot Association) what other countries are doing differently, and what specific challenges face UK industry.
Though market conditions are looking more positive for companies that sell integrate robotics systems, recovery is proving uneven across manufacturing. Sectors like food and beverage are seeing growth, meanwhile automotive and machine tools continue to struggle due to delays and uncertainty.
The UK’s 24th place for the number of robots installed per 10,000 employees is paired with the unfortunate reality of being the only nation in the G7 with a robot density lower than the global average. This is an even bigger concern giving the progress of other nations that have been setting the pace for years. Their progress means that the gap increases further between them and the UK.
Oliver goes into a few of the reasons, stating the belief that we’re too short-term in our thinking here in the UK. He says the way that contracts are devised need to be reassessed so that they’re longer and stretch across supply chains, thus making it easier for businesses to automate over a longer period. Automation rarely delivers quick returns, but with robot lifespans exceeding 20 years, businesses that accept longer payback periods stand to gain significant long-term value.
Oliver also cites an issue that he says still occurs when he speaks to businesses, and that’s workforce concerns over job security. There is still a perception that, rather than moving people into more fulfilling roles, robots will replace people. He points out that this belief just isn’t shared as widely in other countries, where workers generally see robotics as a vehicle for improved efficiency and productivity.
Oliver does share some optimism, however, as foundations have been put in place to arrest the UK’s adoption slide. The Department for Business and Trade has worked closely with Innovate UK to establish several Robotics Adoption Hubs across the UK that are specialised in de-risking automation and giving businesses the confidence to commit to the technology.
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