Trends in automation and robotisation of production in 2024
Many Russian companies are looking to automate or introduce robotics into their work processes to address the issue of workforce shortages.
In the face of a changing labor market, automation and robotics, particularly in production, are expected to play a key role in alleviating the shortage of skilled professionals. Furthermore, business leaders are expressing strong interest in these technologies. In the following, we will explore the current solutions available in the market, along with the emerging trends and future prospects in this field.
Automation and Robotisation of Production in Russia: Key Facts
In recent years, one of the most pressing challenges has been a shortage of skilled workers. This is confirmed by surveys conducted by Technored, First Bit, and the Tsekh Production Association, which revealed that 85% of small and medium-sized business owners identified workforce shortages as their primary issue in 2024. According to the same survey, three-quarters of entrepreneurs plan to implement automated solutions in their businesses this year, with 40% intending to automate both production and business processes.
Focusing on Robotisation Experts from Mordor Intelligence estimate that the global industrial robotics market is currently valued at $43 billion, and it is expected to double within the next five years. The number of industrial robots worldwide has already reached nearly 4 million units, with a global average robotisation density (number of robots per 10,000 employees) of 151.
Russia, however, lags behind in industrial robotisation. There are currently around 11,000 industrial robots in the country, with a robotisation density of just 11. According to data from the Consortium of Robotics and Intelligent Control Systems, the expert community expects a tenfold increase in robotisation at Russian enterprises over the next six years. By 2030, in line with the Russian President's national development goals, Russia aims to be among the top 25 countries in robotisation density, with a total of 94,000 robots and a density of 98 robots per 10,000 employees.
Where Automation and Robotisation Are Most Needed. According to Artem Lukin, General Director of Technored, industries such as machinery manufacturing, electronics, microelectronics, packaging, and food production are the main sectors where automation and robotics are in high demand. The pharmaceutical industry is also embracing these solutions. These industries typically implement automation and robotics for repetitive, monotonous tasks, as well as in hazardous environments.
Current trends in robotisation at domestic production facilities highlight the popularity of collaborative robots (cobots), where robots and humans work together on specific tasks. Additionally, anthropomorphic, medical, and agricultural robots are gaining traction. In mechanical engineering, welding and painting robots are widespread, while packaging and dispensing robots are prominent in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Among automated solutions, automatic production process control systems are particularly sought after.
Preparing for Automation and Robotisation. A critical factor in the success of automation and robotisation is ensuring that production facilities are prepared. These initiatives must be paired with technological modernization, process optimization, and improvements in management efficiency. Robots and automated systems act as executive mechanisms, executing pre-programmed instructions, which underscores the importance of training personnel to operate them effectively.
Future Trends in Automation and Robotisation
Given Russia's goal to join the world's top 25 countries in robotisation density, the government is expected to intensify its focus on this industry. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is finalizing a federal project to support industrial robotics, which includes measures like low-interest loans and favorable leasing terms. Combined with existing programs, such as subsidies for purchasing domestic robots and funding for R&D, these initiatives aim to boost production and stimulate demand.
As domestic robot models enter the market, affordability is expected to improve. According to Alisa Konyukhovskaya, founder of RoboJobs and Robot Market Asia, the average cost of a robot is currently around 4 million RUB, though this can increase significantly with additional commissioning work and equipment.
Educational and scientific institutions are also turning their attention to robotisation. Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow Polytechnic Institute, and Lobachevsky National Research University have launched joint projects with industrial robot manufacturers.
In the coming years, demand for automated process control systems is expected to grow, driven by their demonstrated efficiency. Key areas of development for these systems include standardization, integration of cross-systems within production lines or workshops, and the introduction of predictive analytics.
RosUpack: A Platform for Automation and Robotisation
The Russian market for robotics and automation solutions is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, especially in packaging production. Companies looking to establish themselves in this market should focus on partnerships, and participating in the RosUpack exhibition provides a unique opportunity. RosUpack is Russia's only event showcasing the entire packaging production process across various industries.
The exhibition's relevance is underscored by its high attendance. In 2024, RosUpack attracted 29,537 professionals from 85 Russian regions and 44 countries, 67% of whom held managerial positions. Notably, 81% of attendees visited to find new suppliers, while 62% influence purchasing decisions.
Reflecting current trends, RosUpack highlights the promising future of robotisation and automation in the packaging industry.
Major players like Smart Mechanical Devices, COMITAS and SofPol, which specialize in production automation, showcased efficient solutions such as industrial robots and automated packing equipment in 2024.
If you're a provider of automation and robotisation technologies or services, participating in the 29th International Packaging Industry Exhibition, RosUpack, offers a prime opportunity to connect with new customers and business partners in the packaging industry.
