The latest World Robotics report by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) shows a significant rise in factory automation, with 4,281,585 robots now operating globally — a 10% increase compared to last year. In the UK, robot installations surged by 53% in 2023.
Annual robot installations globally surpassed half a million units for the third consecutive year. Asia accounted for 70% of these, Europe 17%, and the Americas 10%. The 2023 global total of 541,302 new units marks the second-highest year for installations, just 2% below the 2022 record of 552,946.
Despite trailing other nations in overall robot numbers, the UK saw a 51% increase in installations, reaching 3,830 units, driven mainly by automotive industry investments for assembly tasks. China continues to dominate the market, with 276,288 new robots installed in 2023 — 51% of global installations. The country now boasts an operational stock nearing 1.8 million units, the largest of any nation.
Japan, the second-largest global market, saw a slight decline of 9%, with 46,106 units installed in 2023, following two years of record growth. Recovery is anticipated in 2025, with moderate growth rates projected thereafter. Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea, the world’s fourth-largest robot market, reported nearly stable installations at 31,444 units, down just 1% year-on-year.
India, emerging as a fast-growing robotics market, saw a 59% jump in installations, reaching 8,510 units in 2023, largely driven by the automotive sector, which recorded a staggering 139% increase.
In Europe, robot installations rose by 9% to a record 92,393 units, with 80% deployed within the European Union. Germany, the continent’s largest market, saw a 7% increase, while Italy and France reported declines of 9% and 13%, respectively.
Robot installations in the Americas exceeded 50,000 for the third straight year, though the United States saw a 5% drop to 37,587 units in 2023. This was largely attributed to a 15% decline in automotive demand, although installations in metal and machinery industries rose by 8%.
Canada experienced a sharp rise in installations, increasing by 37% to 4,311 units, driven by automotive investment cycles. In Mexico, installations fell by 5%, but the country remains heavily reliant on the automotive industry, which accounts for 70% of its robotics market.
Looking ahead, the OECD forecasts global growth stabilization, though geopolitical risks remain. Automation is becoming essential for maintaining cost efficiency in developed economies, especially as political awareness around domestic production capabilities rises. By 2024, global robot installations are expected to stabilize at around 541,000 units, with accelerated growth projected in 2025 and beyond, continuing a long-term upward trend in factory automation.
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