Special report on robotics in PricewaterhouseCoopers Manufacturing Barometer™ | PWC

“Robotics systems: A strong evolving market: Overall, there is a moderately strong evolving market for robotics systems among Manufacturing Barometer panelists. Currently, 48 percent are either heavily involved (17 percent) or moderately involved (31 percent). Overall, 44 percent believe it is at least moderately important to their company’s business and profit growth over the next two to three years. Planned acquisition of robotics systems over the next two to three years was cited by a maximum of 58 percent– with nearly one-third (31 percent) planning to acquire a moderate amount (25 percent) or many more robotics systems (only 6 percent). A larger number plan to acquire a limited number of robotics systems (27 percent). On the barriers side, 69 percent agree that price and return on investment for robotics systems must be notably reduced before they can consider more installations (49 percent strongly agree). In contrast, only 44 percent agree that quality of robotics must be improved before they can consider more installations (but only 13 percent strongly). Price and ROI appear as the chief barrier to robotics systems growth in the industrial manufacturing market. Interestingly, the panelists agree that robotics will both create new job opportunities and replace workers and reduce their overall workforce.”

Hallie Siegel robotics editor-at-large

Hallie Siegel robotics editor-at-large