On September 24, 2024, the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) reported that Germany has installed a record 28,355 new industrial robots in 2023, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. The operational stock of robots in Germany reached an all-time high of 269,427 units, making it the largest market for industrial robots in Europe, with about one-third of all European installations occurring in Germany.
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The automotive sector saw significant growth, with a 29% increase in robot installations to 9,190 units. This included 5,001 units installed by car manufacturers and 4,008 by suppliers, reflecting a recovery from previous production halts due to component shortages. The automotive market accounted for 32% of all new robot installations.
Other industries also contributed to this growth, with the metalworking industry installing a record 4,916 units (up 16%), while the chemical and plastics sector installed 1,832 units (down 12%). The electronics industry saw a 13% increase with 1,746 units.
Despite this record growth, the VDMA Robotics + Automation association anticipates challenges for 2024 due to a largely fulfilled backlog of orders and stagnant incoming orders since early 2023. While some international demand helps offset domestic weaknesses, political and economic uncertainties may hinder recovery until 2025, when stronger growth is expected as delayed investments are resumed.
Source: www.moebelfertigung.com