__________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Robotics
When looking at these challenges, coupled with workforce shortages, the demand for autonomous robots in the logistics industry is expected to surge.
Democratizing robotics: the journey to improving access for SMEs
Figures show that much of the growth of the UK manufacturing sector in recent years has been driven by SMEs. A key part of this progress stems from the adoption of robotics to boost efficiency and productivity.
Alongside improving safety for workers, robotics is becoming far more accessible to manufacturers. Smarter systems, such as collaborative robots, offer compact and more affordable alternatives for businesses looking to integrate robotics into their operations without shouldering significant costs.
Traditional industrial robots required space, complex programming and dedicated workspaces; however, modern robotics models are relatively easy to deploy and can be programmed by non-technical staff. This broadens the appeal of the technology, extending it from large enterprises to SMEs that may not have traditionally had the resources to invest in large-scale automation systems. These advances are democratizing automation and allowing manufacturers of all sizes to reap the benefits of robotics.
AI-enabled robotics – the next level
The integration of AI with robotics is the most exciting developments in recent years. This shift has enabled robots to transition from reactive machines to intelligent systems. AI allows robots to learn from their environments, make decisions and adapt to new situations without human intervention. This shift is driving innovation in a wide range of applications.
AI advancements will make robots more autonomous, intelligent and adaptable to different environments. This will expand the scope of robotics across industries, fostering innovation in areas such as manufacturing and logistics, while enabling robots to take on highly personalized tasks. Additionally, where robots and AI come together is in feeding data to analytics platforms. Here, AI technologies can be used to optimize warehouse layouts, determine the most efficient picking routes and ensure goods are not misplaced within warehouses.
Success and resilience in 2026
As Britain’ s manufacturers move toward 2026, robotics will sit at the heart of a new industrial era defined by intelligence and collaboration. The technology’ s evolution from rigid automation to adaptive partnership is reshaping how goods are designed, produced and delivered. For SMEs and large manufacturers alike, accessible, AI-powered robotics offer a path to greater productivity, safer workplaces and sharper decision-making.
The challenge now lies in embracing this momentum, ensuring that skills, investment and vision are in place to turn innovation into long-term competitiveness. With the right strategy, robotics will not only empower British industry to overcome its current pressures but also position it as a global leader in the next generation of manufacturing. ■
Andrei Danescu www. dexory. com
Andrei Danescu is CEO and Co-Founder of Dexory. Dexory delivers a data intelligence platform that transforms warehouse visibility with unprecedented speed and impact. By combining autonomous robots, AI and digital twin technology, DexoryView provides warehouse and supply chain operators with full operational visibility and real-time insights from day one, unlocking value far faster than conventional solutions.
manufacturing-today. com 13