VDMA: Robotics and automation industry faces challenges
VDMA Robotics + Automation expects sales to fall by 5% to EUR 14.1 billion in 2026
The German robotics and automation industry is facing ongoing challenges. The VDMA Robotics + Automation expects sales to fall by 5% to EUR 14.1 billion in 2026. This is due to weak demand from key customer industries, geopolitical uncertainties and unfavorable economic conditions. The industry already recorded a 7% decline in sales in 2025, revealing structural weaknesses and increasing the pressure to act.
Dr. Olaf Munkelt, Chairman of VDMA Robotics + Automation, emphasizes the importance of competitiveness through customer focus, innovation and rapid implementation. International competition, particularly from Asia, continues to gain market share. Despite the challenges, digitalization, AI and automation remain long-term growth drivers. The VDMA is calling for a reduction in bureaucracy and competitive cost structures in order to return the industry to a growth trajectory and secure its leading position in European robotics and automation.
