In 2013, global robot sales will increase by about 2%, but from 2014 to 2016, the industry will see worldwide sales increase by about 6% on average per year, according to a newly released report from the International Federation of Robotics.
After three years of increasing robot installations, 2013 will see its share of ups and downs when it comes to sales. Increased spending for robot installations will be seen in the electronics, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, and metal and machinery industries. In addition, the following regions are expected to see growth in robot sales: North America, Brazil, the Republic of Korea, China, Turkey, most Southeast Asian markets, and most Central and Eastern European markets.
On the other hand, the following countries are expected to see robot sales decrease:
- Japan (Due to the continuing weak economic position of its electronics industry)
- Germany (Due to the significant robot investments of the automotive industry over the past three years)
- United Kingdom (Due to investments similar to those of Germany)
Italy, France, and Spain are also expected to see their sales decrease or stagnate as a result of their respective economic situations.
Beyond 2013 the outlook for global robot sales improves, as the report estimates a 6% increase on average per year based on the further penetration of industrial segments like electronics and food and beverage, as well as the continuing industrialization of emerging countries.
In addition, technological advancements should provide a boost in sales.
"These technologies are opening doors to completely new applications for robots,” said Dr. Andreas Bauer, Chairman of the IFR Industrial Robot Suppliers Group in the press release. “Impressive for me are the developments regarding human-robot cooperation and opportunities that are provided in new fields for automation, especially in areas where no robots are currently used."
View the International Federation of Robotics press release.
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James Carroll
Former VSD Editor James Carroll joined the team 2013. Carroll covered machine vision and imaging from numerous angles, including application stories, industry news, market updates, and new products. In addition to writing and editing articles, Carroll managed the Innovators Awards program and webcasts.