Manufacturing Barometer special focus: Robot Adoption – the SME Challenge

Less than one third of the UK’s SME manufacturers currently use robots – or plan to do so – highlighting a sector where the vast majority of businesses are losing out on the chance to address key sector challenges such as talent shortages and introduce efficiency-boosting solutions.
The latest national Manufacturing Barometer report reveals that just 16% of manufacturing businesses have already adopted robots, with another 13% saying they plan to start using them. But over 70% have no plans, or are unsure about, introducing robots.

Three important findings came out of our research;

  • Few SME manufacturers in the UK are benefiting from using robots in their businesses. Secondly,
  • The bulk of SME manufacturers are not using robots because they believe there is no robotic solution available to them; the majority of these manufacture low volume bespoke products.
  • More than one third of SME manufacturers who do not yet use robots are unsure if their competitors do

 

Challenging the preconceptions of SME leadership

In this report we draw on Oxford Innovation’s experience of working with over 2,000 SME leaders to explore the topic of SME leadership.

Key points covered:

  • SME’s and leadership – outlining the problem
  • Traditional solutions and why they miss the mark
  • Recommendations for sustainable solutions

Manufacturing Barometer special focus: Staffing & Recruitment

This Special Focus divulges reasons behind findings last quarter that showed intentions to recruit were at a 10-year low. The reports looks more closely at how manufacturers plan to address the challenge of recruitment and finding an emphasis on the proactive steps they are taking in three core areas vital in driving productivity:

  • People
  • Products
  • Processes. 

UK SME Productivity – Facing up to the Policy Challenge

This report explores solutions to motivate SMEs to identify and invest in specific activities that will improve the productivity of their business and local economies.

Key points covered:

  • Our experience
  • A granular problem
  • A perception problem
  • Achieving greater engagement and improved productivity
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Covid-19 Statement

Update – Wednesday 15th December 2021

Our Innovation Centres remain operational and accessible, and provide a safe environment for our staff and customers. We continue to assess the risk of COVID-19 alongside the latest guidance from government. In the meantime our Innovation Centre remains COVID-19 Secure and fully open for business. Our detailed risk assessment can be found here.