Automation Nation: Why robotics must power the future of UK manufacturing

Culture, confidence, and the fear of complexity

The UK’s historical hesitance to automate isn’t purely down to cost, Mike argues. It’s rooted in a deeper cultural mindset: a “make do and mend” philosophy that undervalues capital investment. SMEs, which make up the vast majority of UK manufacturers, are often cautious and risk averse.

“Many businesses still have this outdated perception that robots are only for big automotive plants,” says Mike. “They think it’s too expensive, too complicated, or not suitable for what they do. But the reality is the opposite – systems are more affordable and easier to use than ever before.”

That fear is often compounded by gaps in practical knowledge.

“Most SME business leaders have never been taught how to buy automation. They don’t know how to write a specification, assess suppliers, or build a business case,” he explains. “We don’t teach that in apprenticeships or business school, and if you’re unfamiliar with the tech and the salesperson across the table knows far more than you do, it’s understandable why people hesitate.”

The solution, he believes, lies in independent, trusted support – organisations like the MTC who aren’t selling systems but offering impartial guidance, helping businesses start small, upskill gradually, and grow their confidence.

The people problem: Demographics and attraction

Another ticking clock is the workforce. “The average age in UK manufacturing is now over 50,” says Mike. “In 10 years, many of those people will have retired. And the next generation doesn’t want to do the same jobs their parents did – not unless there’s exciting and engaging tech involved.”

It’s easy to see this demographic shift as a threat, but savvy businesses also recognise it as an opportunity. “Younger people are digital natives. They’ve grown up with tech and they expect to use it at work. If we want to attract them into manufacturing, we have to build the kind of workplaces they want to be part of – automated, digital, connected” says Mike.

Automation, when done right, doesn’t replace jobs, it redefines them. From factory line programming to process monitoring, a new category of roles is emerging that blends operational oversight with digital skills. This also opens the door to a more diverse workforce.

“Historically, engineering has been male dominated. But the skillsets needed in future – analytical thinking, digital fluency, system control – are completely gender neutral. There’s no reason women shouldn’t be leading this shift too.”