Towards Industrial Robots’ Maturity: An Italian Case Study

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate the impact of industrial robotics, examining the process integration in a sample of +600 companies located in the Province of Brescia, an intensive industrial area in the North of Italy. Through a detailed economic investigation, this study analyses the adoption of robotic solutions in companies of varying sizes, using a survey and financial databases to investigate the most used types of robots, their applications, the impacts at the operational and personnel level, and the companies’ growth (sales, employees, other). The results highlight a significant presence of robotic solutions, particularly articulated robots, in the large companies involved. Robotics diffusion positively correlates with significant improvements in terms of productivity and quality. The introduction of robots is associated with increased corporate growth indicators, including staff expansion. Large companies demonstrate a superior ability to adapt to these technologies, supported by more significant financial resources and a wide range of internal competencies for managing robots. Furthermore, large companies proactively hire qualified personnel or initiate internal training courses. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), although currently less equipped with robotic technologies, exhibit a significant interest in future adoption, highlighting the opportunity for growth and innovation. The results suggest that integrating robotics in the manufacturing sector not only constitutes an effective means to enhance operational performance but also acts as a catalyst for developing human capital and strengthening the local economy.