New State of Smart Manufacturing Study Shows UK Leading the AI and Machine Learning Charge for Enhanced Productivity - Seite 2

According to this year's survey, automation and optimization through artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are the main reasons for smart manufacturing investments within the UK. In the survey, 88% of responding companies in the UK said they have invested, or plan to invest in the next 12 months, in AI and ML. This is above the European figure of 84% and highest among all the European countries surveyed, matching the United States. When companies deploy the technology, there are four standout applications: quality control (38%), cybersecurity (37%), logistics (34%), and customer service (32%).

Empowering and super-charging people 

In any digital transformation, employees risk being the forgotten factor. According to the survey, manufacturers are investing in people and technology to advance. Rather than having AI replace roles, organizations are looking to use AI to tackle roles they are struggling to fill today. To address the manufacturing industry's labor shortage and skills gap, 38% of companies in the UK are spreading the net in their search for talent by leveraging remote work to access a wider talent pool for remote-capable jobs. 

Building resiliency in operations and processes 

Quality remains a top priority for companies in the UK, which ranked it first at 42%. While Europe also listed cost and efficiency, along with quality, in their top three, the UK went in a different direction. Its top priorities behind quality were improving the company's financial position and improving decision-making with data, both at 35%.

"The findings of this year's State of Smart Manufacturing Report underscore a pivotal moment for the industry, as UK manufacturers lead the charge in integrating AI and machine learning technologies," Arvidsson concludes. "This strategic embrace is not merely about technological adoption but signifies a broader transformation towards smarter, more resilient manufacturing ecosystems. By leveraging AI to enhance data-driven decision-making and operational efficiency, UK manufacturers are setting new benchmarks for innovation and competitiveness on the global stage."