Non-automotive industries like food, life sciences, and healthcare lead the way in automation adoption

The North American robotics market demonstrated minor overall growth in 2024, reflecting resilience and adaptability as automation strengthened its role across industries. According to new data from the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), North American companies ordered 31,311 robots valued at $1.963 billion, representing slight increases of 0.5% in units and 0.1% in revenue over 2023. These modest gains mark stabilization after years of volatility and record-breaking growth.

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(Graphic: Business Wire)

Non-Automotive Industries Gain Momentum

2024 saw a notable shift as non-automotive industries captured a larger market share. Food and consumer goods emerged as the year’s fastest-growing sector, with robot orders surging by 65%. This underscores the sector’s growing reliance on automation to meet consumer expectations, streamline supply chains, and address labor shortages.

Life sciences, pharmaceutical, and biomedical industries also posted strong results, with 46% growth in orders. These gains highlight automation’s critical role in advancing healthcare innovation and improving operational efficiencies.

A Strong Finish to the Year

In Q4 2024, North American companies ordered 8,277 robots valued at $506 million, reflecting 8% growth in both units and revenue compared to Q4 2023. Food and consumer goods led the quarter with 77% year-over-year growth, driven by seasonal demand and continued investment in automation.

Navigating Sector Challenges

While growth was robust in many areas, challenges remained. Semiconductor and electronics orders fell by 37% annually, reflecting supply chain pressures and cooling demand. Metals and automotive components saw declines of 4% and 15%, respectively.

A Bright Future for Robotics

"In 2024, the North American robotics market saw mixed results following a challenging 2023," said Alex Shikany, Executive Vice President at A3. "While sectors such as automotive components are still navigating recovery, we have seen encouraging signs of resilience across various industries. As we look to 2025, the mood among our members is optimistic, reflecting a robust belief in the enduring value of robotics and automation technologies. These tools are essential for enhancing efficiency and competitiveness on a global scale."

Learn About the Latest Trends and Best Practices in Automation at Automate 2025

Find out more about the latest in cutting-edge robotics as well as vision, artificial intelligence, motion control and more, at Automate 2025, the leading automation showcase in North America. Registration for the four-day show, scheduled for May 12-15 in Detroit, is free. Register today at: https://www.automateshow.com.

About Association for Advancing Automation (A3)

The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) is the leading global advocate for the benefits of automating. A3 promotes automation technologies and ideas that transform the way business is done. Members of A3 represent over 1,300 manufacturers, component suppliers, system integrators, end users, academic institutions, research groups and consulting firms that drive automation forward worldwide.

A3 hosts a number of industry-leading events, including Automate (May 12-15, 2025, in Detroit, MI) and the International Robot Safety Conference (November 3-5, 2025, in Houston, TX).

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