Robot sales have surged over the last few years as companies in every industry recognize robotics and automation can help them compete globally. While advances in robot technology, ease of use, and new applications remain key drivers in robot adoption, worker shortages in manufacturing, warehousing, and other industries are a significant factor in the current expansion; the most recent data collected by A3 reports nearly 29,000 units valued at $1.48 billion sold between January and September 2021, an increase of 37% over the same period in 2020.
Long before COVID, the manufacturing industry struggled to find and retain employees, especially to fill the “dull, dirty and dangerous” jobs. Unfortunately, the pandemic has compounded the labor shortage for manufacturers and contributed to a sharp increase in job openings throughout most industries. Robots and other forms of automation are saving the day—and we’ve only just begun to see the benefits they can bring.