Robotics are closely related with automation processes and, in combination with software applications, some companies dominate niche markets, for instance in healthcare, in consumer markets or in logistics

The present theme is focused on general industrial robotics and should be evaluated in combination with 'Industrial Processes'

The general industrial robotics manufacturing is concentrated on 4 non-US companies, two of which are Japanese (Fanuc and Yashkawa), one is Chinese-owned German Kuka and one is Swiss-Swedish ABB

To facilitate comparison, industrial conglomerates with leading expertise in robotics and automation are included in the selection

As of 2019 (latest data from the International Federation of Robotics), 2.7 million robots were in operation worldwide and 373 000 units were installed during the year

The key industries are Automotive (34% of total stock),  Electronics (25%) and Metal industry (10%)

In a broad sense, robotics are integral part of distinct segments : industrial automation, service robotics, automated guided vehicles, collaborative robots (interacting with human workload) and household robots

According to MarketsandMarkets, the top robotics market is projected to grow from USD 76.6 billion in 2020 to USD 176.8 billion by 2025, at an estimated CAGR of 18.2%

Niche themes such as 'Medical Robotics',  'Logistics & Robots' or 'ADAS - automated driving' are reviewed as part of this series

Read our notes