New sales record for industrial robots

International Federation of Robotics (IFR)

Günter Herkommer, 14.04.2016, 09:44

New sales record for industrial robots

The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) has announced the sales figures for 2015. According to the figures, the number of industrial robots sold worldwide last year reached the mark of around 240,000 units for the first time.

At 150,000 units, articulated robots are by far the largest group of robot types sold. Between 2010 and 2015, the average growth for this type of robot was 16%.

The sales record corresponds to global growth of 8% compared to the previous year. The strongest demand once again comes from the automotive industry. In a comparison of global sales markets, China continues to record the highest sales figures for industrial robots with growth of 16%. Despite a general reluctance to invest, the Middle Kingdom expanded its position as the number one demand market at an above-average rate with around 66,000 units, including Chinese manufacturers. However, demand remained well below the original IFR forecast of 30%. Asia excluding China stagnates at a high level with 78,000 units

The deployment figures in Europe increased by a new record 9% to just under 50,000 units. Eastern Europe confirmed its position as one of the fastest growing regions in the world with growth of 29%. North America also reached a new historic high: in the USA, Canada and Mexico, growth rose to 34,000 units, an increase of 11% compared to the previous year.

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