North American robotic market sets new record in 2012

March 2013 News

The North American robotics market recorded its strongest year ever in 2012, according to new statistics from Robotic Industries Association (RIA), the industry’s trade group.

A total of 22 598 robots valued at $1,48 billion were sold to companies in North America in 2012, beating the previous record of 19 337 robots sold in 2011. When sales by North American robot suppliers to companies outside North America are included, the totals are 25 557 robots valued at $1,66 billion.

Compared to 2011, North American orders were up 17% in units and 27% in dollars. “The automotive industry has continued to be the strongest driver of the North American robotics market,” said Alex Shikany, director of market analysis for RIA. “Robots sold to automotive OEMs in North America jumped 47% over a then record-setting 2011, while robots sold to automotive component suppliers increased 21%.”

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