Despite earlier projections signaling a slower pace of growth for autonomous mobile robots, warehouse automation continues to gain traction across the global logistics sector.
While a January report from a global research firm adjusted its growth outlook for the robotics market downward by 18% over the next two years, industry trends suggest automation is far from slowing. Advances in robotics, expanding partnerships, and improved affordability are driving adoption across the supply chain.
A 2025 industry report from a leading logistics trade group identified common barriers to automation—primarily limited budgets, unclear ROI, and lack of familiarity with technology. Yet, these hurdles are increasingly being overcome as solutions become more cost-effective and performance-driven.
The report forecasts widespread growth in robotics adoption, projecting usage to double in the next five years—from 41% of supply chain leaders today to 83% by 2030. Technologies focused on inventory and network optimization are also expected to climb from 58% to 92% adoption.
Scaling Automation at Enterprise Level
A major global logistics firm has deepened its investment in automation by placing a new order for 1,000 additional robotic units designed for package handling. These robots are capable of unloading up to 700 cases per hour autonomously, operating in both hot and cold trailer conditions.
This expansion builds on a multiyear technology collaboration and highlights a broader strategy: integrating robotics across the entire warehouse footprint. The firm has invested over $1 billion in automation technologies and now uses more than 7,500 robots globally, with over 90% of its facilities using some form of automation or digital solution.
Leaders within the organization emphasize that robotics and automation are reshaping logistics from the inside out—streamlining operations, increasing resilience, and elevating service standards across the supply chain.
Affordability Unlocks Broader Access
Automation is also becoming financially viable for mid-sized operators. A new product launch from a robotics company introduced an all-in-one warehouse robot capable of performing at human speed—at a fraction of the cost.
The system offers 70 to 80 picks per hour and operates around the clock for approximately $1,900 per month. When averaged over a standard workweek, the cost equates to less than $12 per hour—without downtime or scheduling constraints.
Backed by physical AI and intelligent fleet orchestration, the platform allows warehouse managers to scale operations quickly while maintaining performance and reducing labor pressure. Hundreds of these units are already in use globally, illustrating that Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) models are playing a major role in driving accessibility.
