Why doesn’t the UK make more Robots?

The UK’s Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) sector has strong research, AI and software devolpment capability, and yet struggles to translate this into domestic to manufacture, particularly in the case of robotic hardware. Set this against our position globally where the UK ranks 24th in industrial robot density - the only G7 country outside the top 20 - while other G7 nations are scaling up robotics production and adoption, and it is difficult to see how the UK can compete.

Our white paper – Why doesn’t the UK make more Robots? – takes insights from a survey of industry and face to face summit, that explored the key challenges facing UK manufacturers and sets out recommendations to tackle these challenges head on. As a de-industrialised nation, Low Manufacturing Capability is a major issue - the UK lacks the infrastructure and resources to produce key robot components, with 85% of motors and 70% of sensors sourced from overseas. There is a Fragmented Ecosystem, with little coordination between suppliers, manufacturers, and innovators. Companies frequently struggle to identify local partners or component suppliers which could revolutionise supply chains and reduce costs. Couple this with a UK-wide Skills Shortage, a lack of trained technicians and engineers capable of integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems, and Limited Resilience to global shocks, the landscape for growth in the UK RAS domestic manufacturing sector isn’t as positive as it could be.

The UK Government has recognised the importance of RAS to the economy, and has introduced programmes like the £40m Robotics Adoption Hubs and Smart Machines Strategy 2035 to support innovation and adoption. However, focussing on the usage of technology is only one side of the coin - closing the gap between R&D excellence and mass manufacturing will be the key to unlocking future growth.

As such, it is highly recommended we focus on uniting the ecosystem and promoting growth in the sector. Establishment of a National RAS Registry would facilitate that, providing a scaffold for collaboration. Alongside this, it would be great to see the foundation of a RAS Component Adoption Hub focussed on components from the UK – so that UK manufacturers can showcase, test and develop home-grown components. This, in turn, will support the growth of a modular system – allowing manufacturers to incorporate Circular Economy Principles into design, reducing waste and recovering critical materials. Finally, we have to Invest in Skills and Workforce Development if we wish to create a sustainable environment for growth and reduce reliance on overseas supply.

If the UK is to lead in the robotics age, it must act now to build not just brilliant R&D, but make world-class robots. By implementing the above recommendations, the UK can enhance resilience, create high-value jobs, and develop a globally competitive robotics sector that delivers long-term economic and societal benefits.

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