Fanuc UK is set to shine a light on the key challenges facing UK manufacturers and explore how automation can provide solutions during its annual Open House event. Taking place at Fanuc’s UK headquarters in Ansty Park, Coventry, from 12-14 November 2024, the event will gather industry leaders, automation experts, and innovators to share insights, showcase cutting-edge technology, and discuss the future of UK manufacturing.
The three-day event will feature speakers from global giants such as Airbus, Amazon, and Cummins, alongside key voices from industry groups like Make UK, Automate UK, and Fanuc Europe. In addition to more than 30 exhibitors and live robot demonstrations, visitors will witness the live final of the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition. Presentations, panel debates, and discussions from over 20 automation experts will cover topics such as the state of UK manufacturing, attracting young talent to the industry, and how small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can adopt robotics to improve efficiency.
Hands-On Experiences and Expert Insights
Fanuc’s Open House has established itself as a must-attend event in the automation calendar, attracting over 600 participants, including manufacturers, robotics experts, academics, students, MPs, and the media. Each morning will feature speaker presentations and panel discussions, while afternoons are dedicated to hands-on robotics experiences. Attendees can participate in the Fanuc Academy sessions, watch live automation demonstrations, and connect with industry peers and exhibitors.
Day 1 (Tuesday 12 Nov): Enabling Step Change for Automation Adoption
The event will kick off with an opening address by Fanuc UK Managing Director Tom Bouchier. Marco Chacin from Airbus, along with Fanuc’s Oliver Selby, will then discuss Airbus’ automation journey, highlighting the successes and challenges of implementing automation in aerospace manufacturing.
The day’s sessions will also cover “Successes and Challenges of Global Automation,” the “Current State of UK Manufacturing and Its Future,” and an SME-focused panel debate featuring speakers from Cummins and Hennik Research.
Day 2 (Wednesday 13 Nov): Education for Automation Adoption
Day two will focus on education and the importance of inspiring the next generation of manufacturers. Presentations will feature Amazon apprentices, Rosa Wells from University College Birmingham, and the 2023 winners of the WorldSkills UK Industrial Robotics competition.
A key panel discussion led by automation influencer Mike Wilson and members of the UK Automation Forum will address strategies for attracting more young people into manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of education in fostering the workforce of the future.
Day 3 (Thursday 14 Nov): UK Automation 2030
The final day will begin with an address from Fanuc Europe President Marco Ghirardello, followed by Chris Corkan of Make UK, who will assess the “State of the Nation: UK Manufacturing.” Peter Williamson of Automate UK will then discuss the cultural and policy shifts required to drive greater adoption of robotics in the UK.
The event will conclude with a panel debate featuring the West Midlands Robotics Cluster, including Mike Wilson, Tom Bouchier, and Rachael Eade MBE. The discussion will focus on strategies to increase robotics adoption within SMEs, a crucial step for the future of UK manufacturing.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Fanuc UK Managing Director Tom Bouchier expressed excitement for this year’s event, following the success of last year’s record-breaking attendance. “We are thrilled to open our doors again this November and demonstrate how automation can revolutionize UK manufacturing. From addressing labour shortages to boosting productivity and sustainability, automation offers enormous potential for future-proofing businesses.”
He also emphasized the importance of engaging young people: “Inspiring the next generation is key to maintaining the UK’s competitive edge on the global stage, and the talent on display at Open House will motivate many to consider a career in manufacturing.”
Fanuc’s 2024 Open House promises to be a vital event for manufacturers looking to explore automation solutions and prepare for the challenges ahead. With its diverse range of speakers, hands-on experiences, and a focus on the future, the event aims to empower UK manufacturers to embrace automation and remain competitive in an evolving global market.