What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The North American robotics industry has experienced a 4.3% increase in robot orders in the first half of 2025, according to data from the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). Revenue from these orders rose by 7.5% compared to the same period in 2024. The automotive sector led the growth with a 34% year-over-year increase in units ordered, followed by significant gains in the plastics and rubber, and life sciences sectors. Collaborative robots, or cobots, have also shown a rising influence, accounting for 23.7% of all units ordered in Q2 2025. These robots are favored for their ability to work safely alongside humans, addressing automation needs in space- or labor-constrained environments.
Why It's Important?
The increase in robot orders highlights the growing importance of automation in various industries, particularly in automotive and life sciences. This trend reflects broader economic factors such as reshoring, labor shortages, and the need for greater operational efficiency. Automation is becoming central to long-term business strategies, not just for efficiency but also for building resilience and improving flexibility in a rapidly changing global market. The rise of cobots indicates a shift towards more collaborative and adaptable automation solutions, which could lead to increased productivity and safety in workplaces.
What's Next?
If current patterns hold, the North American robotics market could outperform 2024 levels by mid-single digit growth rates by the end of the year. A3 plans to expand future reporting to include growth trends by sector, providing deeper insights into the market dynamics. Additionally, A3 has launched a new premium market intelligence platform, MI+, offering exclusive access to forecasts and sector-specific analyses, which could help businesses make smarter, faster decisions.
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