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Insights
Industrial Automation
By
Shawn Ford
The global industrial automation market has experienced robust growth, with its value rising from $185.5 billion in 2023 to an estimated $198.43 billion in 2024.
This upward trajectory is expected to continue, reaching approximately $263.88 billion by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4%. Key drivers for this growth include:
Increasing Adoption of IoT and AI: The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in industrial environments is enhancing efficiency and predictive maintenance capabilities. These technologies allow for real-time data analysis, improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Rising Demand in Various Sectors: There is significant demand from sectors such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and agriculture. For example, the automotive industry is increasingly adopting robotics to enhance production speed and quality.
Government Support and Investments: Government initiatives and investments in automation technologies are also playing a crucial role in market expansion.
Emerging trends in the market include the use of 5G technology for improved connectivity, advanced cybersecurity solutions to protect automated systems, and the development of cloud and edge computing for better data processing and storage.
Major players in the global market include Schneider Electric, Emerson Electric Co., ABB, General Electric, Honeywell International, Mitsubishi Electric, FANUC, Rockwell Automation, and Siemens. These companies are investing heavily in research and development to introduce innovative products and maintain their competitive edge.
Industrial Automation in the UK
The UK industrial automation market is a significant segment within the broader European market. The region's market dynamics are influenced by factors such as technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and the adoption of industry 4.0 practices.
Key aspects of the UK market include:
Technological Advancements: The UK is at the forefront of integrating advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and robotics into its industrial processes. This adoption is driven by the need to enhance productivity, reduce labour costs, and improve the precision and quality of manufacturing outputs.
Government Initiatives: The UK government supports automation through various initiatives and funding programs aimed at boosting industrial innovation and competitiveness. These initiatives are crucial in helping industries transition smoothly to automated systems.
Sector-Specific Growth: Industries such as automotive, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverages are significant adopters of automation technologies in the UK. The automotive industry, in particular, benefits from the use of robotics for assembly lines and manufacturing processes.
The UK's industrial automation market is poised for continued growth, driven by the increasing need for efficient manufacturing processes and the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Companies such as Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems are key players in the UK's industrial automation landscape, leveraging automation to maintain their competitive edge globally.
Conclusion
The global and UK industrial automation markets are on a robust growth trajectory, driven by technological advancements, sector-specific demands, and supportive government policies. With major players continuously innovating and investing in research and development, the future of industrial automation looks promising, offering enhanced efficiency, reduced costs, and improved product quality across various industries.