The mobile robotics industry has experienced a rise in recent years, and today, in 2024, Europe remains the global leader. European mobile robotic companies like Mobile Industrial Robots, Clearpath Robotics by Rockwell Automation, Kuka Robot, Robotiq, PAL Robotics, Fetch Robotics (now part of Zebra Technologies), Robotnik Automation, Magazino – a Jungheinrich company and so many more are dominating the industry right now.

While China hasn’t always been seen as a major player in the industry, its quick progress has caught its competitors off guard, and alongside Germany and the US, China is expected to be at the forefront of the industry, with a  combined annual demand for over 350,000 mobile robots by 2030.

Why are these Chinese startups expanding into Europe?

Expanding into Europe means that these startups are able tap into an advanced industrial base, strong demand for automation, and supportive regulatory environment. Europe’s manufacturing and logistics sectors are increasingly adopting smart technologies to increase efficiency, and Chinese companies offer competitive solutions in robotics and AI.

Europe’s focus on sustainability and green innovation also aligns with the capabilities of many of these Chinese robotics firms, making the market more attractive. By expanding internationally, these startups aim to diversify revenue streams and reduce reliance on their domestic market.

Let’s take a dive into the Chinese startups making these moves:

 

Geek+

Geek+ officially expanded into Europe in 2019, targeting the growing e-commerce and logistics sectors. The company established its European headquarters in Germany, aiming to meet the rising demand for AI-driven warehouse automation.

The company chose Europe as a strategic market due to its rapid adoption of smart technologies and the need for more efficient supply chains, especially in retail and third-party logistics (3PL). This expansion allowed Geek+ to work with major European retailers, offering solutions like robotic picking and sorting systems. Now, the company has more than 1,500 employees and offices worldwide, including Germany, the UK, the US, Japan, South Korea, Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR, and Singapore.

Hai Robotics

Hai Robotics began its European expansion in 2021, with the establishment of a regional office in the Netherlands. The company aimed to provide its autonomous case-handling robots (ACRs) to European businesses seeking smarter warehousing solutions. Europe’s focus on Industry 4.0 and intelligent logistics made it a prime target for Hai Robotics.

For European clients, Hai Robotics entry has brought advanced, flexible, and scalable solutions to industries like e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and fashion, enhancing storage and inventory efficiency. Now, HAI has over 30 offices worldwide.

Quicktron Robotics

Quicktron GmbH entered Europe in 2020, focusing on the growing demand for automation in manufacturing and logistics. By launching operations in markets like Germany and Poland, Quicktron Robotics has been able to offer its intelligent mobile robots to companies seeking material handling and warehousing solutions.

For Quicktron GmbH, this move helped it gain a foothold in Europe’s competitive automation landscape, offering businesses in e-commerce and retail a cost-effective way to optimize their operations amid labor shortages and increasing order volumes. Now, the company’s subsidiaries in the U.S., UK, Germany, Australia, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore, along with production facilities in Kunshan, China, support their worldwide reach.

 

mobile robot

 

ForwardX Robotics

ForwardX Robotics officially expanded into Europe in 2021, establishing partnerships and working with European manufacturers and logistics firms. The company targeted industries such as automotive, electronics, and e-commerce, where the demand for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) is rising.

With Europe’s advanced manufacturing base and push towards flexible automation, ForwardX Robotics found a receptive market. The company’s entry into Europe allowed it to showcase its innovative AMR solutions that improve warehouse and production efficiency while providing a scalable path for businesses to enhance automation. Now, the company has offices in China, Japan, Korea, Europe, Australia and the US, along with partnerships around the globe.

Hikrobot

Hikrobot began its European expansion in 2020, driven by the continent’s strong emphasis on smart manufacturing and logistics. The company leveraged its expertise in autonomous robots and smart warehousing systems to meet the needs of European industries transitioning to Industry 4.0.

By establishing partnerships with European companies in logistics, automotive, and manufacturing sectors, Hikrobot strengthened its global presence and became a prominent player in the European robotics market. For European customers, Hikrobot’s entry offered advanced, customizable automation solutions at competitive pricing. Now, the company has over 30 offices and 10 domestic regional branches, globally.

 

Summary

In closing, 2024 is a transformative year for the mobile robotics industry, with Europe leading the charge and innovative Chinese startups making significant inroads. This dynamic interplay promises to enhance efficiency and sustainability across various sectors.

As we look ahead, the collaboration between established European firms and ambitious newcomers will undoubtedly shape the future of automation. Stay tuned for more insights into the exciting developments in this rapidly evolving field!

 

 

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