Automation and robotics have long been the domain of enterprises. With the growing number of Industry 4.0 initiatives, SMBs needed to enter the territory that’s still new to them. Yet, technology advancements and cost reduction are quickly paving the way for SMBs to embrace these transformative tools.
Historically, small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) have been cautious about adopting robotics, citing barriers such as high implementation costs, lack of expertise, and fear of production disruptions. However, the global robotics market, valued at $65 billion in 2021, is projected to reach a staggering $180 billion by 2027. Whether they want it or not, SMBs will play a greater and active role in this growth. This revolution is driven by several key factors.
Affordable solutions: Costs of industrial robots have plummeted—expected to drop to under $11,000 per unit by 2025.
Ease of integration: No-code and low-code platforms simplify deployment, making robotics accessible to businesses with minimal technical expertise.
Flexibility: Plug-and-play solutions and collaborative robots (cobots) are designed to integrate seamlessly into existing operations.
Manufacturing software: Dedicated manufacturing software, like for instance DELMIA Apriso MES or DELMIA Ortems APS, enables companies to digitalize their manufacturing processes—from the shop floor, through warehouse and production, to quality— and improve their scheduling and planning operations.
For SMBs in the manufacturing industry, robotics is no longer a luxury but a necessity for staying competitive. Robots can streamline repetitive tasks like welding, packaging, and material handling, reducing labor costs and improving quality control. Moreover, automation can attract tech-savvy talent to address the persistent skills gap and secure a future-ready workforce.
By becoming accessible, robotics enhance the operational agility of small and medium manufacturers, enabling them to adapt to market changes swiftly.
Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS): This model allows businesses to access robotics on a subscription basis, eliminating the need for heavy upfront investments.
Modular automation systems: These flexible setups can be reconfigured to accommodate changing production needs.
Government support: Initiatives like tax incentives and grants further reduce barriers to entry, encouraging SMBs to embrace automation.
Robotics is reshaping the manufacturing landscape, offering SMBs the tools to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities. The question is no longer “if” but “when” you'll begin your journey toward automation. The free ebook from our strategic partner Dassault Systèmes, titled “The Evolution of Robotics in Small and Medium-Sized Businesses: From Hesitation to Innovation,” offers an in-depth exploration of this evolution.
As a trusted Dassault Systèmes’ System & Consulting Integrator Partner, Andea has an intimate knowledge and a proven track record of implementing manufacturing solutions that support automation and robotic transformation.
