Future Factories Powered by AI
Make UK and Autodesk examine AI adoption in UK manufacturing, and the opportunities and challenges these technologies present for the sector.
25.11.2024
Britain’s manufacturers are at risk of missing out on innovation and productivity gains due to a lack of confidence in digital technologies and AI, according to ‘Future Factories Powered by AI’ – published by Make UK, in collaboration with Autodesk.
The report examines the state of AI adoption in UK manufacturing, including the opportunities and challenges for manufacturers and proposes how Government initiatives and regulation can support the sector’s adoption of new technologies.
It finds that companies are using AI tools widely across their business, in particular for managing energy use and reducing waste, while 75% of them plan to increase AI investment in the next year.
However, despite increased adoption, there remains a significant knowledge gap around AI’s potential uses among businesses with only 16% regarding themselves as ‘knowledgeable’ on the subject. As a result, only a third of companies are using AI specifically in their manufacturing operations. While robotics use also remains weak, despite global automation opportunities.
AI and automation are driving dramatic change in speeding up manufacturing processes and elsewhere in companies. Their potential to drive economic growth and reshape industries is becoming increasingly clear, and the manufacturing sector and its factories of the future have a central role to play. However, while the uptake of such technologies is increasing, the UK needs a step change in the use of automation otherwise it risks missing out on vital transformative productivity gains.
Taking advantage of new technologies isn’t a one-off investment and the silver bullet for change. It demands a shift in mindset and an iterative approach over time, especially in the journey towards future, digital factories.
A continued and concerted effort will be needed to achieve the industry transformation and workforce with the skills and capacity required to take advantage of new technology, allowing UK industry to emerge as a global leader in AI-driven innovation, setting the new standard for manufacturing excellence.
