The lack of skilled operators, high job turnover rates, a projected labour deficit, and the disinterest of the younger generation in repetitive and low-skilled jobs are all factors contributing to machine shops operating CNC machines at only 60-70% of their capacity and labour shortage in the UK
Majority of the businesses feel this is impacting their normal operations and are looking for new ways to fill the labour shortage in the UK.
The very obvious solution is automation, but does it come at a cost?
Business owners are worried about the cost of implementing a robot in their production and employees are worried that robots will replace them.
Firstly, let’s talk about automation in the workforce.
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the question of whether robots will take everyone’s jobs has become a topic of great discussion. However, it’s important to clarify that robots do not replace jobs; they simply automate tasks, allowing humans to focus on more complex and creative endeavours.
Let us illustrate this with an example: skilled workers assembling motorcycle panniers for the renowned brand. As they build two panels simultaneously, a robot seamlessly joins their efforts by efficiently fastening screws onto one of the panels while the worker concentrates on assembling the other.
This collaboration between humans and robots showcases how automation can enhance productivity and streamline processes without jeopardising employment opportunities. By delegating repetitive and mundane tasks to robots, humans are freed up to engage in more intellectually stimulating activities that require their unique skills and expertise.
It’s essential to understand that technology is not here to replace us but rather to augment our capabilities.
The integration of robotics into industries allows for increased efficiency, improved quality control, and faster production times. This ultimately leads to economic growth and opens up new avenues for job creation.
Extensive research indicates that the symbiosis between humans and robots can elevate overall productivity in work environments by up to 85%. The key lies in a collaborative approach, where both entities contribute their unique strengths.
Embracing this symbiotic relationship between humans and machines is crucial for our future prosperity. By leveraging automation wisely, we can maximise our potential as a society while ensuring that no one is left behind.
The concept of collaborative robots allows for incremental technology adoption, empowering businesses to automate gradually, aligning with their specific needs and priorities.
Now let’s look at the other aspect of this problem: what investment is needed for a robot for a small to medium size company in the UK?
Identify and automate 3d processes
Once you’ve looked at your production line and identified repetitive or/and dangerous jobs (3D), we can start the audit and price your investment to help you solve the labour shortage in the UK.
This way you can use a systematic pathway for your business to transition from minimal automation to a transformative state, fostering resilience in the face of evolving challenges.
The initial step involves identifying processes with low installation impact and high potential for productivity improvement. Subsequently, implementing robots into these identified processes precedes the crucial phase of continuous improvement, ultimately leading to enhanced profitability.
Our goal is to facilitate the integration of robotics into businesses unfamiliar with automation. By encouraging businesses to identify and automate the 3D processes – Dirty, Dangerous, and Dull – we aim to empower employees to redirect their efforts toward tasks that add genuine value to the organisation. This approach allows for the strategic deployment of human skills, creating a more dynamic and efficient workplace.
Cobot prices start at £50.000, so depending on the job, you could potentially use the earnings from the first Cobot to fund the second one and so on. We work with various Cobot suppliers in the UK and Europe. UR Cobots are very user friendly and quick to set up. Our engineer will perform the initial audit and will negotiate the best price for your project with the supplier. And in some cases your return on investment could be as short as 10-12 months and potentially the difference between that company remaining in the UK or relocating to a low cost center so the big savings here are not just after one year it’s what the robots actually going to earn and you can invest those savings back into your business and buy the next robot.
Let’s address a prevailing misconception that automation is exclusively tailored for large enterprises.
For small businesses grappling with challenges in sourcing highly skilled labour, the struggle is all too familiar. Current employees may be seeking higher compensation, posing additional hurdles. Instead of dismissing automation as costly and unsuitable for your enterprise, envision the Cobot as an adept and driven team member.
As previously highlighted, the Cobot is exceptionally cost-effective. Consequently, you can elevate your skilled workforce to roles involving inspection and management, while the Cobot efficiently handles routine tasks. Recognizing the substantial advantages of retaining your existing staff and facilitating their professional growth within the organization, leveraging automation with the Cobot not only addresses your labor shortage but also fosters employee retention and attracts a more skilled workforce to augment your business.
Get in touch today to discuss your current situation and how we can help you to automate your production.