Key Industry Insights Shared In The New Automate UK Report

Supply Chain Challenges

There’s been a continuation and worsening of supply chain issues that emerged during the pandemic, with 73% of end-users confirming this is their main business issue. The flow of vital components have been disrupted and costs have been driven up. Contributing factors such as the challenge of forecasting customer demand, geopolitical tensions, cyber attacks, and post-Brexit labour shortages have underscored the need for robust risk mitigation strategies.

Automation Challenges

Despite automation's potential to streamline processes, over 81% of end users identified automation as their main challenge for 2023. Difficulty in the automation of bespoke products, sourcing skilled labour, and staying abreast of technological advancements have posed significant hurdles. Such challenges have been addressed in Automate UK’s Manifesto for Automation, emphasising the importance of STEM education and training.

Adoption Barriers

Cost remains the primary barrier to automation adoption, with 73% of respondents citing it as a limiting factor. Adoption has also been hindered by the lack of technological expertise and the reluctance of small and medium businesses (SMBs) to commit their limited funds. Again, Automate UK is addressing these challenges, with regular events for the forging of industry connections, plus the sharing of updates in Machinery Update magazine and its online eBulletin. The gradual adoption of automation technologies has also been recommended, so that stakeholders can come to see the return on investment over time. 

Innovation and Collaboration

Innovation is vital for the continued development of automation technologies. However, barriers such as a lack of insight from end users and long-term customer commitments impede progress. Initiatives such as the UK Automation Forum are designed to foster collaboration and address these challenges through stakeholder collaboration. Recent discussions have focused on busting the “robots take jobs” myth, with an emphasis on automation allowing employees to be retrained and move into more rewarding roles.

Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, there's optimism for the future. Indeed, 67% of automation suppliers and end users have said that they are hopeful about the prospects for 2024. The growth of capital expenditure has been forecast, together with the increased integration of AI technologies. However, there’s still a clear need to address the shortage of a skilled workforce.

Automate UK’s Role

Automate UK has a leading role to play in the support of industry progress and innovation. We will continue to drive positive change through the lobbying of organisations and government, delivery of practical support, and promotion of career progression. Initiatives such as Automate BEST and the upcoming release of the Machinery Finder app will have a positive impact in addressing skill shortages and facilitating easier access to automation technologies.

Looking Ahead

Collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships will be vital to the successful navigation of challenges and realisation of automation industry opportunities over the coming months and years. Automate UK remains committed to supporting its members and end users, ensuring a thriving and resilient automation ecosystem that fosters economic growth and technological advancement.

Together, let's shape the future of automation.