UK manufacturing must be “automated at its core” to secure its future, according to industrial automation specialist Fanuc UK Ltd. The company made the statement during the recent Smart Factory Expo held at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham.
Speaking at the Automation and Robotics Hall, Oliver Selby, Head of Sales at Fanuc UK, stressed the importance of a strong, connected supply chain. He said that collaboration, shared thinking, and solid partnerships are essential for manufacturers to adopt automation successfully.
“Manufacturers need automation solutions that are cost-effective and deliver a good return on investment,” Selby said. “The best way to reduce risk in automation is to build strong relationships across the entire manufacturing ecosystem.”
Fanuc partners with a wide range of stakeholders. These include end users, Tier 1 suppliers, automation providers, academic institutions, trade bodies, and even venture capital firms. According to Selby, this network allows Fanuc to offer tailored products and services, competitive pricing, and extended support such as research, development, and training.
“By growing our capabilities through partnerships, we help manufacturers reduce risk and benefit from the combined experience of the wider automation community,” he added.
Fanuc Supports UK WorldSkills Robotics Competition
Fanuc is also investing in future talent through its support of the UK WorldSkills Competition. A live qualifier event for industrial robotics took place during the two-day expo. Twelve teams of young robot programmers competed for a spot in the national finals this November.
Participants received training from Fanuc’s technical team and were challenged to program robots for pick-and-place tasks similar to real-world industrial uses. They were judged on technical skills, speed, accuracy, and soft skills such as teamwork, organization, and documentation.
“The level of talent at WorldSkills UK improves every year,” Selby said. “We’re proud to support the competition and help train the next generation of robotics engineers.”
Collaboration Showcased on the Expo Floor
Fanuc also used its exhibition stand to highlight collaboration. It featured five key partners:
- Reeco Automation Ltd presented a robotic palletising system using the Fanuc CRX 20ia/L robot, designed for small factory spaces.
- Expert Technologies Group demonstrated modular automation for tape and adhesive applications.
- Cyber-Weld Ltd showcased Soldamatic welding training tools, which are helping upskill workers for roles in the UK’s defence industry.
- Cyan-Tec displayed its industrial laser systems.
- Cobots and Machinery Safety Ltd offered safety advice for collaborative robot use.
“Smart Factory Expo has become a key event for the UK manufacturing sector,” Selby said in closing. “We’re proud to stand alongside our partners and show how automation can boost efficiency, address workforce shortages, and lower energy costs.”
