MTC Events calls for recognition that robotics and automation underpin the Industrial Strategy

23 June, 2025

Mike Wilson, Chief Automation Officer at MTC, said: “We have political support for robotics and automation – but it’s essential to view these technologies as key enablers across the growth-driving sectors identified in the Government’s Invest 2035 green paper. Robotics and automation have huge potential across advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence, and life sciences so we’re calling on government to recognise that in the upcoming Industrial Strategy.”

The Robotics and Automation event featured a speech from Rt Hon Greg Clark, a member of the Government’s Industrial Strategy Advisory Council and former Business Secretary under the previous Conservative Government. It also included a keynote address by John Slinger, Labour MP for the constituency of Rugby, who is championing the adoption of robotics and autonomous systems in the West Midlands. More than 30 expert speakers and panellists showed the importance of robotics and automation for the productivity and growth of UK manufacturing.

As the fourth Robotics and Automation conference, the event attracted over 35 exhibitors, and circa 400 attendees sharing knowledge, exchanging expertise, and building valuable connections. The event has grown rapidly over the past four years, showing the increasing importance of robotics and automation across industry.

John Slinger, Labour MP for the constituency of Rugby, said: “Addressing an audience who are pro robot and pro automation, I wanted to let you know that I am with you” in a speech that spelled out his belief that automation is one of the greatest untapped opportunities for the UK. He explained how he has seen automation transform jobs. Shifting roles towards programming, maintenance, process, and design. Slinger has witnessed firsthand how automation stimulates company investment in employee development due to its requirement for highly skilled workers.

Day one of the conference focused on robot adoption and day two shifted toward the adjacent technologies that are shaping the future.

The success of Robotics & Automation 2025 comes alongside news that Birmingham has been selected to host the European Robotics Forum (ERF) 2027, following a proposal from MTC in partnership with University of Birmingham and the Birmingham and West Midlands Convention Bureau. For further details on MTC Events’ next conference, the National Nuclear Manufacturing Conference July 1st, or to browse the full 2025 programme, visit the website. For companies eager to support, present, or join the MTC in driving the deployment of robots and automation throughout the UK, get in touch today: automation@the-mtc.org

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