Automation in logistics equipment is growing rapidly in the UK, driven by the need for efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability. However, several key challenges continue to slow down or complicate its adoption—particularly for SMEs, warehouse operators, and 3PL providers.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK logistics sector face a unique set of challenges that can hinder growth, competitiveness, and resilience.

Over the past five years, UK logistics automation spend has seen strong and accelerating growth, driven by e‑commerce expansion, labour shortages, and technology maturation:

Investing in warehouse automation is a significant decision that can lead to long-term efficiency gains, cost reductions, and competitive advantages. However, determining the right time to make that investment depends on various factors, including the scale of your operations, business growth projections, and technological maturity. Here’s a breakdown of when to invest in warehouse automation:

The UK is experiencing significant growth in warehouse automation spending, driven by the increasing demand for efficiency, cost reduction, and the rapid growth of e-commerce. 

Warehouse automation is evolving rapidly, driven by advances in technology, changing consumer expectations, and the need for greater efficiency in supply chains. Here are some of the key warehouse automation trends that are shaping the industry:

When we think about the highly automated systems in distribution centres today it can conjure up images of highly specialised and complex equipment and robots whizzing around.

AGVs, AMRs, Drones and AI. The opportunity to consider adopting automation technologies becomes more compelling with the prospect of reduced costs, increased operational efficiency and productivity.

Should you be considering your automation journey now?

The opportunity to consider adopting automation technologies becomes more compelling with the new generations of equipment offering the prospect of reduced costs, increased operational efficiency and productivity to smaller operations.

Should you be considering your automation journey now?

Saving money in the warehouse is a by product of saving time. By embracing automation, you make better use of your space and reduce the labour involved in routine tasks.