Robotics market in North America achieves new record in 2015
During the first nine months of 2015, robot orders and shipments achieved an all-time high in North America, according to a report from the Robotic Industries Association (RIA).
A total of 22,427 robots valued at $1.3 billion were reportedly ordered from North American companies during this time period, which represents an increase of 6% in units and 9% in money over the same period, year over year, which previously held the record. Both automotive and non-automotive markets helped with the overall figures, with automotive-related orders up 6% through September and non-automotive industries such as electronics, food and beverage, consumer goods, and metals, increasing 5% year over year.
"Demand for robots is at an all-time high, and companies of all sizes, in all sectors of the economy, are realizing the benefits of automation," said Jeff Burnstein, President of RIA. "Robots are optimizing production more than ever, increasing global competitiveness, and performing dull, dirty and dangerous tasks that enable companies to create higher-skilled, better-paying, and safer jobs for their employees."
Alex Shikany, RIA Director of Market Analysis, also commented. "Even with the record sales of robots, the unemployment rate in the U.S. continues to be at its lowest rate of 5.1% since 2008," he said. "This data confirms what is detailed in our recent white paper ‘Robots Fuel the Next Wave of U.S. Productivity and Job Growth’ which illustrates how increasing use of robots is associated with increased employment."
The RIA estimates that approximately 236,000 robots are now being used in United States factories, placing the US second only to Japan in robot use.
View more information on the RIA.
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James Carroll
Former VSD Editor James Carroll joined the team 2013. Carroll covered machine vision and imaging from numerous angles, including application stories, industry news, market updates, and new products. In addition to writing and editing articles, Carroll managed the Innovators Awards program and webcasts.