Robotics, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) have been positioned as foundational technologies for economic transformation under the UK government’s ‘Modern Industrial Strategy’, which outlines a 10-year vision to 2035.
While not defined as a standalone sector, robotics features prominently across three of the eight named growth sectors: advanced manufacturing, digital and technologies, and professional and business services (PBS).
The strategy signals a deliberate push to scale adoption of intelligent automation in both industry and services.
The ‘Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan’ commits to nearly doubling annual private investment in strategic subsectors – including aerospace, batteries, agri-tech and automotive – by embracing smart production, advanced materials and robotics.
READ MORE: UK Robotics Growth Partnership outlines 10-year plan for smart machines
It promises an expansion of the Made Smarter programme, with new pilots designed to support SME manufacturers in deploying robotics systems, digital twins and predictive automation.
Meanwhile, the ‘Digital & Technologies Plan’ lists robotics as an enabling component of the UK’s frontier technology ecosystem, alongside AI, semiconductors, and quantum.
The plan outlines R&D alignment, growth finance and pro-innovation regulation to drive UK leadership in intelligent systems and connected automation.
These themes are reinforced by the ‘Professional and Business Services Sector Plan’, which commits £150m to support AI and automation in law, accountancy, consultancy, architecture and engineering.
Five new PBS tech hubs and an AI Skills Hub will help train professionals in deploying advanced automation tools across service-based industries.
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Responding to the strategy, Oana Jinga, CCO and co-founder at UK robotics and logistics firm Dexory, welcomed the focus on SME innovation, but cautioned that skills and talent remain a critical bottleneck: “It’s encouraging to see clear support for small and medium-sized manufacturers in the Industrial Strategy, from extending the Made Smarter programme to expanding access to finance and tackling high energy costs.
“However, if the UK wants to lead in truly advanced, high-tech manufacturing, we need more clarity and commitment on how this will be delivered in practice.”
Jinga urged the government to set out a long-term plan for developing advanced manufacturing skills, invest in youth career inspiration, and ease recruitment pathways for high-skill roles in robotics, engineering and automation.
“Modern manufacturing is driven by robotics, automation and cutting-edge R&D, all of which rely on highly skilled engineers, software specialists and innovators.
“Continued, targeted support for ambitious smaller manufacturers will be key to keeping the UK at the forefront of manufacturing innovation.”
Complementing these initiatives, the British Business Bank will deploy a new £4bn Industrial Strategy Growth Capital initiative, expected to crowd in an additional £12bn of private funding.
This capital will target high-growth firms in the eight priority sectors, including those developing automation technologies or embedded robotics systems.
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The British Business Bank will also lead direct investments of up to £60m in key UK tech companies and support new venture funds focused on AI and robotics.
The strategy also acknowledges energy-related cost pressures for automation-heavy operations. A forthcoming British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will reduce electricity prices for strategic industries and support grid upgrades for automation installations.
Implementation will be overseen by the Industrial Strategy Council and a new Regulatory Innovation Office.
Innovative applications of technology in retail and e-commerce, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, automotive, transport & logistics, and more will be celebrated at the Robotics & Automation Awards on 29 October 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Visit www.roboticsandautomationawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s robotics and automation sectors!
