The UK government’s new Modern Industrial Strategy places robotics, automation and artificial intelligence (AI) at the centre of its plan to reshape the economy by 2035. The 10-year vision integrates these technologies into three key growth sectors—advanced manufacturing, digital and technologies, and professional and business services—marking a major push to expand intelligent automation across industry and services.
A core component is the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan, which targets a near doubling of private investment in subsectors such as aerospace, batteries, agri-tech and automotive. It promotes smart production methods, new materials and robotics to raise productivity. The Made Smarter programme will expand with pilot projects to help small and medium-sized manufacturers adopt robotics, digital twins and predictive automation tools.
In parallel, the Digital & Technologies Plan identifies robotics as a key part of the UK’s emerging tech sector, alongside AI, semiconductors and quantum computing. It outlines measures in research, finance and regulation to help the UK lead in intelligent systems and automation.
The Professional and Business Services Sector Plan goes further by allocating £150 million to boost AI and automation in service-based fields including law, accountancy, consultancy, architecture and engineering. This includes five new technology hubs and an AI Skills Hub to train professionals in advanced automation.
Industry has largely welcomed the strategy, especially its focus on innovation for SMEs. Oana Jinga, Chief Commercial Officer and co-founder of UK robotics firm Dexory, praised the support but warned that talent shortages remain a challenge. “If the UK wants to lead in truly advanced, high-tech manufacturing, we need more clarity and commitment on how this will be delivered in practice,” said Jinga. She called for sustained investment in skills development, STEM careers and simplified recruitment for robotics and software roles.
A £4 billion Industrial Strategy Growth Capital initiative from the British Business Bank aims to unlock £12 billion in private funding for high-growth firms, including those in robotics and automation. Up to £60 million in direct investment will support UK tech companies, along with backing for new venture capital funds focused on AI and robotics.
The strategy also addresses cost pressures, notably high energy prices. A planned British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme will offer reduced electricity rates for strategic industries and support grid upgrades tailored to automation needs.
This plan builds on existing policy. The Smart Machines Strategy 2035 outlines the UK's ambition to lead in robotics, highlighting the role of smart machines in solving complex challenges and boosting productivity. Demand is rising—robotics installations hit a record 3,830 in 2023, up 51% year-on-year, driven by the automotive sector and temporary tax breaks.
Yet the UK still trails global leaders. It has just 141 robots per 10,000 manufacturing workers, compared with 397 in Germany and 1,000 in South Korea. Analysts link this to the UK’s weak productivity, though forecasts suggest rapid growth ahead, with a projected 36% annual rise in the robotics market through 2027 driven by labour shortages and economic uncertainty.
Beyond manufacturing, the government is targeting automation in areas like sustainable farming, with £12.5 million in funding for robotic and sensor technologies in agriculture.
While challenges remain around skills and infrastructure, the UK’s industrial strategy lays the groundwork for a more competitive economy built on advanced automation, innovation and long-term resilience.
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Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative aligns with recent UK government announcements on the Modern Industrial Strategy, particularly the emphasis on robotics and automation in manufacturing, digital, and services sectors. The earliest known publication date of similar content is June 23, 2025, from Reuters, detailing the UK's industrial strategy focusing on advanced manufacturing and clean energy. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/climate-energy/uk-backs-advanced-manufacturing-clean-energy-ten-year-industrial-plan-2025-06-23/?utm_source=openai)) The Robotics and Automation Magazine article was published on June 23, 2025, indicating timely reporting. No significant discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were found. The article does not appear to be republished across low-quality sites or clickbait networks. The narrative is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. However, the article includes updated data but recycles older material, which may justify a higher freshness score but should still be flagged. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-backing-to-transform-the-uks-future-through-the-modern-industrial-strategy?utm_source=openai))
Quotes check
Score:
9
Notes:
The article includes a direct quote from Oana Jinga, Chief Commercial Officer and co-founder of UK robotics and logistics company Dexory: “If the UK wants to lead in truly advanced, high-tech manufacturing, we need more clarity and commitment on how this will be delivered in practice.” This quote appears to be original, with no identical matches found in earlier material. No variations in wording were noted, suggesting the quote is accurately reported. The absence of earlier appearances of this quote indicates potential originality or exclusivity.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from Robotics and Automation Magazine, a specialised publication focusing on robotics and automation industries. While it is a reputable source within its niche, it may not have the same level of recognition as mainstream outlets like the Financial Times or BBC. The article references a press release from the UK government, which adds credibility to the information presented. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-backing-to-transform-the-uks-future-through-the-modern-industrial-strategy?utm_source=openai)) However, the reliance on a single source for the press release content may limit the breadth of perspectives.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims made in the narrative are plausible and align with the UK's recent industrial strategy announcements. The focus on robotics and automation in manufacturing, digital, and services sectors is consistent with the government's objectives to enhance economic growth and competitiveness. The inclusion of specific initiatives, such as the expansion of the Made Smarter programme and the establishment of technology hubs, is supported by recent reports. The tone and language used are appropriate for the subject matter and region, with no inconsistencies noted. The article provides specific factual anchors, including names, institutions, and dates, enhancing its credibility.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is timely and aligns with recent UK government initiatives, particularly the emphasis on robotics and automation in the Modern Industrial Strategy. The inclusion of an original quote from a relevant industry leader adds depth to the report. The source, Robotics and Automation Magazine, is reputable within its niche, and the information presented is plausible and consistent with other reputable outlets. No significant issues were identified, leading to a high confidence in the overall assessment.
