Global Service Robot Sales Surge by 30%, Asia-Pacific Leads Market Growth

Global sales of professional service robots surged by 30%, with over 205,000 units sold, according to a new report published today by the International Federation of Robotics (IFR).

The majority of these sales came from the Asia-Pacific region, which accounted for nearly 80%, or 162,284 units. Europe followed with 33,918 units sold, and the Americas recorded 8,927 units.

Marina Bill, President of IFR, emphasized the growing impact of service robots across industries, saying, “The service robotics industry is on the move: more and more robots are serving on factory floors, in shopping centers or helping with deliveries on the street.”

Transportation and logistics robots led the market in 2023, making up more than half of the total sales. The sector saw a 35% increase, with nearly 113,000 units sold. Notably, in July, Vayu Robotics introduced the world’s first on-road delivery robot, showcasing the sector’s innovative advancements.

As industries like trucking face labor shortages, robots have become essential for automating tasks such as loading and unloading. These robotic solutions are designed to be user-friendly, even for non-technical staff, easing their adoption in industries facing staffing challenges, as noted on the report.

In a similar vein, IKEA announced in July that it is enhancing its warehouse operations with an upgraded AI-powered drone system, set for 24/7 operation. This advanced system aims to streamline inventory management by automating stock checks, thereby reducing ergonomic strain on employees and allowing them to focus on less demanding tasks.

The hospitality industry also experienced significant growth in robot adoption, with over 54,000 units sold in 2023—a 31% increase. Robots in this sector are often used for mobile guidance, information, and telepresence, serving customers in public spaces such as restaurants and hotels, said the report.

They are also being deployed for tasks like food and beverage preparation, enhancing customer service. A notable example is the introduction of Robotic Waiters in Nairobi, attracting locals and tourists alike who are eager to experience this innovative dining concept.

In agriculture, robots are becoming vital as the industry faces demographic changes and labor shortages. Nearly 20,000 agricultural robots were sold in 2023, reflecting a 21% growth. These robots play a key role in precision farming, which aims to increase sustainability and efficiency in food production.

Professional cleaning robots saw a 4% increase in sales, with around 12,000 units sold. While slower compared to other sectors, cleaning robots remain important, particularly for tasks like floor cleaning, which account for about 70% of this segment’s sales.

The report also highlighted growth in medical robots, with sales rising by 36% to approximately 6,100 units. Rehabilitation and non-invasive therapy robots saw the biggest increase, up 128%, while demand for surgery robots grew by 14%, and sales of diagnostic robots increased by 25%.

For instance, NHS Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester announced in September that it will implement the Ion Endoluminal System, a new robotic tool designed to enhance early lung cancer detection and significantly reduce the time required for diagnosis and treatment.

The World Robotics 2024 report also looked at the top countries for service and medical robot manufacturers. The United States leads the way with 199 manufacturers, followed by China with 107 and Germany with 83.

The report underscores the global expansion of the service robotics sector, as automation becomes increasingly essential in industries facing labor shortages and operational challenges.