United States Collaborative Robot Market Assessment, By Payload Capacity, By Application, By End-user, By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F

United States collaborative robot market is projected to witness a CAGR of 19.62% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 653.45 million in 2024 to USD 2739.89 million in 2032F owing to higher number of small and medium businesses adopting automation and robotics. The market is undergoing rapid technological transformation, driven by trends like Industry 4.0 and automation demand. Cobots are increasingly integrated with advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and augmented reality, enabling enhanced human-robot collaboration and adaptability. Simplified programming interfaces and improved safety features are making cobots accessible to small and medium-sized enterprises. Additionally, the shift towards reshoring manufacturing operations and addressing labor shortages is boosting adoption across industries like automotive, logistics, and healthcare. Companies are expanding their space in the United States, understanding the market potential.

For instance, in September 2023, Shenzhen Yuejiang Technology Co., Ltd. (Dobot Robotics) announced the opening of its United States office in Dallas, marking a major milestone in its global expansion strategy. The company is set to introduce the new CRA series of collaborative robots (cobots) along with the VX500 Smart Camera to the United States market. These versatile products enhance the selection of high-performance, user-friendly cobot solutions, catering to businesses across various sectors, including electronics, automotive, and metal processing.

Small and Medium-Sized Enterprise Adoption and Regulatory Push to Fuel the Market Growth

Cobots offer a cost-effective solution for SMEs seeking to improve efficiency without major capital expenditure. Many SMEs lack the infrastructure for large-scale automation, making cobots attractive due to their ease of deployment and flexibility. The rise of "batch-size-one" production, where small, customized orders are common, further fuels cobot adoption, as they can easily switch between tasks without extensive reprogramming or setup time. Businesses, including metal fabrication and other processes are leading companies to design cobots that are highly accurate.

For instance, in August 2023, ABB Ltd. launched ultra-accuracy precision feature for GoFa cobots. The new Ultra Accuracy feature from ABB merges with highly precise path performance with the intrinsic simplicity, safety, and adaptability of GoFa, thereby expanding the potential applications of collaborative robots in various industries such as electronics, automotive, aerospace, and metal fabrication.

Stricter workplace safety regulations from agencies like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) are driving companies to integrate cobots. Unlike traditional industrial robots, which require protective barriers, cobots are designed to work safely alongside humans, reducing workplace injuries. Additionally, increasing scrutiny of ergonomic injuries, especially in repetitive manufacturing and logistics tasks, makes cobots an attractive investment. By automating hazardous or physically straining jobs, businesses can comply with evolving safety standards while enhancing worker well-being.

Rapid E-Commerce and Workforce Challenges to Fuel the United States Collaborative Robot Market

The explosive growth of e-commerce is forcing fulfillment centers and warehouses to optimize their logistics operations. Unlike traditional robots that require structured environments, cobots can dynamically adapt to fast-changing workflows, such as picking, packing, and sorting. The need for rapid order processing, especially with same-day delivery expectations, has led to cobot deployment in last-mile delivery hubs and distribution centers. Hence, companies showcase their cobot's capabilities such as high-load and high-reach abilities.

For instance, in May 2024, Elite Robots exhibited its enriched range of cobots and all-in-one solutions at the upcoming Automate Show, Chicago. Utilizing the robust CS620 robotic arm from Elite Robots, which boasts a 20kg payload capacity and a reach of 1800mm, this solution incorporates a lifting column to extend the robot's operational range, along with a specially designed end-of-arm tool. The pallet position sensors notify the robot when an empty pallet is available for use, while the proximity sensors and dynamic safety protocols contribute to improved safety measures.

Cobots ability to work alongside human staff in confined spaces gives them a competitive advantage over fully automated systems. The United States manufacturing sector is facing both labor shortages and pushback from unions regarding full automation. Cobots present a middle ground by augmenting human workers rather than replacing them outright. In industries with strong union influence, companies can implement cobots to boost efficiency while maintaining workforce levels. Additionally, as older skilled workers retire, cobots help fill the labor gap without requiring extensive retraining.

Less Than 5 Kg Segment Holds the Largest Market Share

Based on payload capacity, the less than 5 Kg segment leads in the regional market. Cobots in this segment are compact and versatile, making them ideal for tasks requiring precision, such as assembly, pick-and-place operations, and quality testing in industries like electronics, automotive, and consumer goods. These cobots are affordable and easy to integrate, appealing to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that seek efficient automation solutions without significant upfront investment. Their ability to work alongside humans safely and efficiently allows widespread use in diverse sectors, including manufacturing and logistics. Companies tend to launch different series of cobots comprising various payload options.

For instance, in September 2024, Kawasaki Robotics (USA), Inc. launched high precision industrial grade advanced collaborative robots at International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS). The CL Series cobots support a variety of payloads and reach from 3 kg/590 mm to 10 kg/1000 mm, with higher payloads such as 15kg.

Future Market Scenario (2025 - 2032F)

Small and medium-sized enterprises are likely to adopt cobots for tasks like assembly, packaging, and quality testing due to their ease of integration and cost efficiency.

AI and machine learning integration are expected to enhance cobot capabilities, enabling smarter operations and expanding applications across industries like healthcare and logistics.

Automotive, electronics and food & beverage industries are expected to lead the adoption of cobots, leveraging their precision and efficiency in tasks like sorting, gluing, and machine tending.

Major players such as Universal Robots and ABB are projected to drive innovation through partnerships and new product launches to expand market presence.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Key players in the United States collaborative robot market are leveraging strategies such as product innovation, strategic partnerships, and acquisitions to strengthen their market position. They are focusing on developing advanced cobots with enhanced payload capacities, improved safety features, and user-friendly programming interfaces to cater to diverse industrial needs. Additionally, investments in artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies are enabling smarter and more adaptable cobot systems. Companies are expanding their global footprint through regional manufacturing facilities and distribution networks while targeting industry-specific solutions for sectors like automotive, electronics, and food & beverage. Some sectors like construction and building assistance are also getting traction now among accelerating growth of the market. Hence, companies are introducing cobots with unique functionalities.

For instance, in May 2024, FANUC America Corporation showcased explosion-proof paint cobot designed for industrial painting, coating, powder and fiberglass reinforced plastic applications. The latest FANUC collaborative robot is engineered to enhance various painting processes, including those that are high-mix and low-volume. Additionally, it is built to meet the rigorous explosion-proof safety regulations mandated in the United States.