The Future of Automation in UK Manufacturing: What to Expect at the PPMA Show 2024

There’s no denying the growing importance of automation in manufacturing, with Make UK reporting that two out of every three manufacturers have already invested in automation for greater efficiency and output  It’s a trend that looks set to continue, with the UK’s automation market projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% leading up to 2028.

As the UK’s largest processing and packaging machinery exhibition, the PPMA Show will provide direct insight into such advancements. Discover how you can gain a competitive edge with access to a comprehensive line-up of innovative automation developments at Birmingham’s NEC this September.

Industry Overview

These are exciting times, with UK manufacturers looking to build on strong foundations through technological adoption for process streamlining, cost reduction and product quality enhancement. There’s great potential for integrating artificial intelligence (AI), vision systems, robotics and other smart technologies for the automation of tasks categorised as dull, dirty, and dangerous.

While the UK has been some way off the pace of more heavily automated countries such as Germany and Sweden in past years, there’s now cause for optimism. The UK’s robot density has grown from 71 robots per 10,000 employees in 2015 to 111 robots in 2023. It’s also becoming increasingly clear that automation will be of vital importance to the achievement of net zero targets, making up for the lack of skilled labour, and enabling competition on an international scale.

The relatively low level of automation could even be seen as an opportunity for UK manufacturers. AI-driven robotics, advanced vision systems, and other automated solutions could be integrated to increase manufacturing capabilities. Indeed, 63% of manufacturers have been reported as planning capital investments over the next 24 months, with automation and robotics expected to be priorities. Many will be interested in the range of productivity-enhancing innovations set to be presented at this year’s PPMA Show.

The Technology Showcase

Taking place from the 24th to the 26th of September, the PPMA Show will provide a showcase for exhibitors across 2,500 brands. Representing every element of the production line, from robotics to processing, packaging, and inspection to end-of-line robotics, this will be the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and innovations. The seminars and expert-led talks will be of particular interest to the engineers, buyers, and other manufacturing representatives keen to realise the benefits of automation.

See what else you can expect at the PPMA Show 2024:

• Live demonstrations of new machinery that could solve your manufacturing problems

• Opportunities to gain knowledge and learn about potentially transformative technologies

• Chances to network, build relationships, and learn from business representatives across a range of sectors.

AI-driven robotics, advanced vision systems and IoT-enabled processing and packaging machinery will be among the range of innovations presented at this year’s show. Exhibitors covering a range of technologies, from clever components up to complete production lines, will be on hand to answer any questions and highlight the transformative potential. With tickets being free, the question is whether you can afford to miss out on such insights into automated solutions for improved production efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced product quality.

The PPMA Show is the place to be if you want to stay ahead of the curve, network with industry leaders, and explore the innovations presented by 330+ exhibitors from the processing and packaging sectors. So go ahead and register for your free ticket!

For more information about how Automate UK can support you go to https://www.automate-uk.com/