What's Happening?
In 2025, North American robot orders experienced a significant increase, rising by 6.6% compared to the previous year, according to the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). This growth was primarily
driven by non-automotive sectors, including food and consumer goods, semiconductors and electronics, and life sciences. The total number of robots ordered reached 36,766 units, valued at $2.25 billion, marking a 10.1% increase in revenue. The fourth quarter of 2025 alone saw 10,325 robots ordered, valued at $579 million, representing a 6.6% increase in units and an 8.7% rise in revenue compared to the same period in 2024. The automotive industry, while still recovering, showed signs of stabilization, with major vehicle manufacturers contributing to the uptick in orders.
Why It's Important?
The rise in robot orders highlights a growing confidence in automation as a solution to competitive pressures and workforce shortages. As industries seek to enhance productivity and manage reshoring initiatives, the adoption of automation technologies is becoming increasingly vital. The surge in demand from non-automotive sectors indicates a broad-based momentum across various industries, suggesting a shift towards more diversified applications of robotics. This trend is likely to have significant implications for the U.S. economy, potentially boosting productivity and efficiency across multiple sectors. The increased adoption of collaborative robots, which accounted for a substantial portion of the orders, underscores the importance of these systems in modern automation strategies.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, the positive trend in robot orders is expected to continue into 2026. The strong performance of automotive OEMs in the latter half of 2025 is seen as a leading indicator for growth in supplier and component markets. Combined with steady demand across non-automotive industries, this points to a favorable outlook for the coming year. The continued rise in collaborative robot orders suggests that these systems will play a crucial role in future automation strategies, potentially leading to further innovations and efficiencies in various sectors.
