Packaging, processing driving robotics tech adoption

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Packaging, processing driving robotics tech adoption

1 Sep 2026

Mari Rydings

Mari Rydings is a versatile content creator, editor and marketer with experience developing dynamic, results-driven materials for B2B and B2C audiences. As the editorial director for Avant Food Media, she leads the day-to-day editorial operations for the company’s print and digital magazines, newsletters and social media platforms. Outside of work, she loves reading, hiking, putting together jigsaw puzzles and spending time with her husband and their twin daughters.

HERNDON, VA — Robotics technology for packaging and processing is expected to nearly double by 2031, according to the new “2026 Robotics in US Packaging & Processing Report” released by PMMI, the association for packaging and processing technologies.

The report, produced in conjunction with market intelligence firm Interact Analysis, comes as the industry gears up for Pack Expo International 2026, set for Oct. 18-21 in Chicago.

In 2025, the US robotics market that serves packaging and processing was worth more than $440 million, and it’s projected to reach approximately $800 million by 2031, representing a 10.3% CAGR. The growth comes as end users prioritize productivity, cost reduction and quality.

“Robotics adoption is moving from targeted applications toward a broader role in packaging and processing operations,” said Jorge Izquierdo, PMMI’s VP of market development. “The research shows that end users are looking beyond labor availability alone. They are prioritizing measurable gains in throughput, cost, quality and consistency, and they expect reliable systems, strong service and a clear path to ROI.”

Market representation of robots

Data from 2025 revealed the following market share:

Industrial robots: 63%
Mobile robots: 32%
Collaborative robots: 5%

By 2031, mobile robots are forecast to reach a 45% market share, while humanoid robots, currently a small and primarily pilot-stage segment, will grow from 0.1% to 5%.

Among end users surveyed:

72% currently use robotics, a figure expected to climb to 95% by 2031
69% of OEMs and integrators currently include robotics in their portfolios, 86% expect to do so by 2031, and 81% anticipate increasing investment over the next year
61% expect to increase their robotics investment over the next year

Areas generating the most interest are robotic arms that load packaging materials into machines, mobile robots that bring materials to the production line, mobile robots equipped with cobot arms and processing applications.

When selecting an OEM, end users prioritize reliability and uptime performance, the availability and quality of service and support, and demonstrated ROI or payback.

Challenges to robotics technology adoption

High upfront costs, integration with existing equipment and systems, and maintenance and service support concerns are common obstacles to robotics technology adoption.

Pack Expo International 2026 will feature several opportunities for attendees to experience robotics technology first-hand through live demonstrations and direct conversations with suppliers about integration, service, safety, uptime and ROI.

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