The UK’s Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has launched a new Robot Experience Centre (REC), designed to help UK manufacturers accelerate the adoption of robotics and automation technologies.
Located at MTC’s Ansty Park site in Coventry, the vendor-neutral facility will enable manufacturers to explore, test and validate robotics solutions before making investment decisions.
The REC comprises three dedicated areas: a modular automation and robotics sandpit for project development and experimentation; a demonstration space for applications including welding, palletising and machine tending; and a collaborative robot development area.
Alongside access to robot and automation technologies, the centre will offer training and expert support to help businesses build skills, increase confidence and successfully implement automation solutions.
The initiative has been developed to address the persistent barriers to robotics adoption across UK manufacturing, particularly among SMEs, where challenges around skills, procurement and implementation continue to hinder deployment.
A new training programme – Robotics and Automation Adoption for Small to Medium Sized Enterprises – will provide practical guidance on evaluating, procuring and integrating robotics technologies.
To support manufacturers beyond the initial adoption stage, MTC is establishing partnerships with system integrator partners.
These collaborations will help businesses transition more effectively from proof of concept to production, reducing implementation challenges, minimising re-engineering and accelerating the delivery and cost-effectiveness of automation projects.
In addition, through the REC, MTC will connect potential adopters of robotics with a panel of financing providers to help them find the most suitable funding option.
Commenting on the role of the Robot Experience Centre in helping manufacturers overcome barriers to automation adoption, Mike Wilson, chief automation officer at MTC, said: “The Robot Experience Centre is about helping businesses understand what automation can do for them in a practical and accessible way.
“For many manufacturers, especially SMEs, the challenge isn’t recognising the potential benefits of robotics – it’s knowing where to start.
“By giving businesses access to testbeds, expertise and training under one roof, we’re helping them to make investments that will improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and ultimately, support long-term growth for UK manufacturing.”
The centre was officially opened by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands. Speaking at the launch, he said: “If we want to help more businesses in the West Midlands to modernise production, stay competitive and grow, we’ve got to make it easier for them to get the support they need – whether that’s new technology, funding or the right expertise.
“That’s why we’re working more closely with organisations across the region to join things up and provide support that actually works for businesses on the ground.
“We’re already doing that through programmes like the West Midlands Investment Zone Supply Chain Transition Programme, collaborating with partners including the MTC to back manufacturers and help them move forward.
“The Robot Experience Centre is exactly the kind of capability that supports this wider approach, helping more companies see what’s possible, build confidence and take that next step to make the investment they need to grow with confidence.”
