From challenges to change: how automation is transforming UK Manufacturing by Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer

As we celebrate National Productivity Week, it’s a time to reflect on what productivity truly means for the UK. At its core, productivity is about doing more with less - more output, better results, and greater value while using fewer resources.  

Productivity is the cornerstone of economic growth yet the output per hour worked in the UK is growing much slower than our G7 competitors, apart from Italy. The use of robots and automation is an important contributor to improving productivity but the UK lags behind its global competitors, ranking 23rd in the world for robot density, a key indicator of automation adoption. This gap poses significant challenges but also offers a transformative opportunity: if automation levels in the UK matched the world’s most automated countries, our productivity could increase by 22.3%.

Over the next decade, robotics and automation technologies have the potential to contribute £184 billion to the UK economy, driving our nation to a more prosperous and productive future. So, how do we seize this opportunity? 

Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Offier - MTC

Why robotics and automation are key to the UK's productivity growth

Robotics and automation offer a game-changing solution for UK industries, particularly manufacturing. By automating repetitive and time-intensive tasks, businesses can achieve:

• Increased utilisation of existing machinery: Automating machine tools can boost efficiency from 70% to 90%, significantly increasing output.
• Consistent quality: Robots provide unparalleled precision, reducing waste and improving product reliability.
• Workforce optimisation: Automation allows employees to focus on higher-value tasks, often more rewarding and better paid jobs, driving innovation and growth.
• Factory optimisation: Incorporating automation results in a better use of space and energy, from extended production hours to improved health and safety measures.  
• Increased flexibility: Embedding automation technologies results in increased flexibility, allowing for quicker changeovers and product redesign.  

However, automation adoption in the UK remains limited. A staggering 20,000 of 27,000 SMEs (>10 employees) in UK manufacturing currently operate without robots. This hesitancy stems from misconceptions about cost, complexity, and the fear of job losses. Overcoming these barriers is critical to unlocking the potential of robotics and automation. 

Breaking down misconceptions about robotics in manufacturing

Myth 1: robots are expensive and complicated

Modern robotics has evolved significantly, becoming more affordable and user-friendly. Today, even small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can access tailored automation solutions that fit their budgets and needs.

Myth 2: robots take jobs

Contrary to popular belief, robots don’t replace workers - they enhance their roles. By taking over repetitive tasks, robots enable employees to focus on more rewarding and creative activities. Companies that adopt robotics often experience growth, creating more jobs and increasing wages. 

The cost of inaction: why UK manufacturing needs automation now

The UK manufacturing sector faces several challenges that automation can help resolve:  

Labour shortages: With 58,000 vacancies in UK manufacturing, automation is critical to maintaining operations and addressing a £6 billion lost opportunity.

Global competitiveness: Falling behind in automation adoption has seen the UK drop out of the top 10 manufacturing nations globally.

Supply chain resilience: Geopolitical instability and Brexit have increased the need for reshoring production. Automation enables efficient, cost-effective local manufacturing. 

How to get started with robotics and automation

For businesses considering robotics adoption, preparation is key. Here are steps to ensure success:

1. Identify the right application: Start with a manageable project to gain experience and build confidence with automation.
2. Develop a strong business case: Consider not only labour savings but also quality improvements, reduced waste, and long-term growth potential.
3. Create a requirements specification: Clearly define your needs to provide vendors with a consistent basis for proposals.
4. Seek independent advice: Organisations like MTC offer guidance to help businesses navigate their automation journey.

The first robot is always the most challenging due to the learning curve. Organisations like the MTC can help avoid mistakes and accelerate that learning. Future robot additions often happen much fastest once the first has been implemented. 

Driving productivity growth through collaboration

To support the UK’s automation journey, initiatives such as the West Midlands Robotics Cluster are fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among businesses. Meanwhile, foresighting exercises led by MTC aim to address skills gaps and equip businesses with the tools to adopt robotics effectively. 

The future of UK manufacturing: a call to action

Embracing robotics and automation in manufacturing is not just a pathway to improved productivity - it’s a necessity for the UK’s global competitiveness. By overcoming barriers and misconceptions, businesses can unlock significant value, contribute to economic growth, and create a more sustainable future.

Let’s make National Productivity Week a turning point. With the right investments in automation technologies, we can reclaim our position among the world’s top manufacturing nations and secure a prosperous future.