#USA #New York #ABI Research #Industrial Robots #China Robotics

The Rise of Chinese Industrial Robot Manufacturers

As the industrial robot sector continues to expand, China stands out as the world's largest single adopter of these advanced machines. Predictions from ABI Research indicate that the global demand for robots will hit unprecedented levels, with shipments expected to increase from around 400,000 units in 2024 to a staggering 649,000 units by 2030. This substantial growth suggests a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 7.4%.

Industrial robots encompass various types of machines, including high payload robotic arms, such as SCARA robots, which are primarily used for assembly purposes, delta robots known for their rapid picking capabilities, and Cartesian robots utilized in material handling tasks. These machines serve as the backbone for manufacturing economies, indicating a trend of rising sales as manufacturing locations evolve.

Changing Market Dynamics

George Chowdhury, a Robotics Industry Analyst at ABI Research, highlights that macroeconomic factors heavily influence the industrial robot market. Despite the uptick in 2024's robotics market, a slowdown in manufacturing has been observed. The landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with several leading companies reporting decreased orders as China-based robotics manufacturers begin to penetrate markets traditionally dominated by established players.

In this competitive environment, collaborative robots are also making strides by showcasing improvements in payload capacities and decreasing average selling prices (ASPs). Meanwhile, small manufacturers present new opportunities for both industrial and collaborative robot producers. Although collaborative robots offer ease of use and lower price points, the demand for industrial robots, known for their high accuracy and repeatability, remains strong.

Market Segment Insights

In 2024, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region led global industrial robot deployments, contributing to a whopping 70% of total shipments, with China accounting for nearly 40% of that figure. The automotive industry remains the largest consumer, commanding 38% of new shipments, while electronics assembly follows at 23%. Specifically, articulated robot arms, favored for their superior payload capabilities in automotive manufacturing, made up 70% of all robot shipments.

Key incumbents in the industrial robot manufacturing sphere include renowned companies such as FANUC, ABB, KUKA, Yaskawa, and Omron. In response, Chinese competitors like SIASUN, STEP Electric, and Estun Automation are rapidly gaining ground.

The Future and its Implications

The evolution of the industrial robotics landscape hints at a significant shift. Key trends such as reshoring and near-shoring practices are still emerging, while the influx of Chinese robots into the marketplace poses a potential challenge to the growth of established European and Japanese manufacturers. With the demand for manufacturing remaining robust, the dynamics among industrial robot OEMs may be on the verge of transformation, paving the way for new leaders in the industry.

In conclusion, the projections provided by ABI Research emphasize the critical role that industrial robots play in manufacturing's future. As competition heats up and the market evolves, stakeholders must stay attuned to these shifts, ensuring they adapt and thrive in this burgeoning landscape.