According to the World Robotics 2024 Report by International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the number of industrial robots operating in factories worldwide has reached a record 4.28 million units in 2023, marking a 10% increase from the previous year. Europe played a significant role in this growth, accounting for 17% of all newly installed robots, while Germany stands out as the continent's largest market. We’re presenting you some of the key highlights from this report, especially focusing on trends in Europe and Germany.
Asia remains the center of global robot adoption, accounting for 70% of all new robot installations in 2023. China leads the pack with over 276,000 units installed, representing 51% of the global market. Although slightly down from 2022, China’s robotic fleet remains the largest in the world, with nearly 1.8 million robots in operation. Japan, the second-largest market, saw a modest decline in installations, though it remains a global powerhouse in robot manufacturing.
Europe experienced a 9% rise in robot installations, setting a new record of 92,393 units in 2023. The growth was largely attributed to the completion of delayed projects and the ongoing trend of nearshoring, which incentivizes manufacturers to move production closer to home. Germany remained Europe’s largest market for industrial robots, with a 7% increase in installations. Italy follows as the second-largest European market, although it experienced a 9% decline in installations, dropping to 10,412 units. France, the third-largest market in Europe, also saw a decrease, with robot installations falling by 13% to 6,386 units. Smaller European markets like Slovakia (+48%) and Hungary (+31%) showed an impressive growth.
Germany stands as Europe’s largest market for industrial robots, with installations increasing by 7% to a all time-high of 28,355 units in 2023. This makes it one of the top five global markets. Remarkably, 38% of all industrial robots in Europe are found in Germany, with strong demand driven primarily by the automotive industry. Marina Bill, President of the International Federation of Robotics: “Germany is the largest market for industrial robots in Europe. Around one in three robot units was installed by German industry in 2023. The operational stock increased by an average of 5% each year between 2018 and 2023.”
In the Americas, robot installations slightly declined by 1%, with 55,389 units installed in 2023. The U.S., the largest market in the region, saw a 5% drop, largely due to reduced demand in the automotive sector. Despite this, the U.S. remains a key player globally, ranking as the third-largest market for industrial robots.
Among emerging markets, India stands out with a remarkable 59% increase in robot installations in 2023. The country added 8,510 units, driven primarily by a booming automotive industry, which saw a 139% surge in demand for automation. This positions India as one of the fastest-growing markets for robotics globally.
Looking forward, global robot installations are expected to stabilize at around 541,000 units in 2024. While geopolitical risks and economic uncertainties remain challenges, the long-term growth prospects for industrial automation are strong. By 2025, the market is expected to regain momentum, fueled by growing political and corporate interest in reshoring production to developed economies.
For more detailed insights, check out the full report from the International Federation of Robotics.
