Businesses seeking to use robotics to increase productivity and counteract skill shortage

Thursday 23rd of June 2022 12:25 PM

An exhibition which will showcase how businesses can use robotics to increase productivity and counteract the skills shortage will take place in Coventry this November.

Robotics and Automation is the UK’s largest dedicated exhibition in the sector and is expected to attract more than 1,500 visitors over two days at Coventry Building Society Arena.

The event will take place on Tuesday November, 1 and Wednesday November, 2 and comes as businesses seek ways to use new and emerging technologies to improve productivity and predictability in the supply chain.

It will be the fifth time the show has been hosted at Coventry Building Society Arena, with 65 per cent year-on-year growth in visitor numbers. It is set to see over 100 exhibitors and provides networking opportunities with other qualified professionals.

Businesses already registered to attend include Asda, B&Q, Clipper Logistics, Tesco, COOP, BAE Systems, Arla Foods, Jaguar Land Rover, Holland & Barrett and many more.

Those in attendance will be seeking automated and robotic solutions to streamline processes in their distribution centres and manufacturing facilities.

Exhibitors will be coming from all over the UK and Europe to show how the latest technologies can improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Stephen Brooks, MD of Akabo Media and organiser of Robotics and Automation, said: “Robots are getting cheaper to acquire for businesses and this comes at a time where labour is at a premium as a result of the on-going skills crisis here in the UK.

“While there will always be a place for people power in all industries, there are clear benefits to robotics and automation for all businesses. For example, in manufacturing, a robot can work 24/7, with other benefits being speed and dependability.

“By using robotics, businesses can boost their productivity and focus on perhaps up-skilling existing workers into jobs that aren’t able to be carried out by automation.

“We’re expecting to attract more than 1,500 professionals this year from industries ranging from retail and manufacturing, to food & drink and automotive.”

Robotics and Automation will also feature a conference running alongside the event, offering insight into the role automation is having on transforming logistics and manufacturing.

There will be sessions with leaders of innovative businesses working developing robotic and automated solutions, while also featuring sessions with leaders from other sectors to highlight the impact robotics have had on their businesses.

Paul Michael, Commercial Director at Coventry Building Society Arena, said: “We’re proud of our on-going partnership with Akabo Media and are continuing to work with the company to develop its portfolio of exhibitions, including Robotics and Automation and IntralogisteX.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses from across the Midlands and UK to get an insight into the new and emerging technologies which can help to improve productivity and efficient in their operations.”  

Robotics and Automation is free-to-attend for visitors. For more information visit www.roboticsandautomation.co.uk