Interview with Alan Conn, Managing Director - RA UK & Ireland, ABB Robotics

ABB Robotics has long been at the forefront of innovation, helping businesses integrate automation to drive efficiency and competitiveness. In this exclusive Q&A, Alan Conn, newly appointed Managing Director - RA UK and Ireland for ABB Robotics, about how robotics can help businesses elevate their performance through automation and innovation.

Q: Congratulations on your new role! Can you share your vision for ABB Robotics in the UK and Ireland?

Thank you. I’m thrilled to be leading ABB Robotics in the UK and Ireland at such an exciting time for automation. My vision is to support businesses of all sizes in embracing robotics to enhance productivity, drive sustainability, and remain competitive. As a robot supplier, our aim is to make automation more accessible to more businesses by providing them with cutting-edge solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing operations and enable them to scale efficiently.

Q: Why should businesses consider investing in robotics now?

There are several key reasons. First, there is an increasing demand for flexibility and efficiency in manufacturing and logistics. Robots can help businesses respond to changing customer demands faster while maintaining high quality and reducing costs. Second, with ongoing labor shortages in various industries, automation provides a way to fill the gaps while enabling employees to focus on higher-value tasks. Lastly, with businesses under growing pressure to become more sustainable, robots can make a major contribution by optimizing energy use, reducing waste, and improving safety in hazardous environments.

Q: What industries stand to benefit the most from robotics and automation?

Robots have a transformative impact across numerous industries. For manufacturing companies, robots offer a great way of streamlining production lines and improving precision. Logistics and warehousing operators are also seeing huge benefits from automation, particularly with the rise of e-commerce, where robots help in sorting, packaging, and delivery. Food and beverage industries also benefit from robotic automation in handling and packaging delicate products efficiently. The benefits that robot can bring are also seeing them being adopted in other sectors too. In construction, for example, companies are starting to explore using robots for tasks such as modular fabrication and material handling, improving safety and productivity.

Q: How can businesses ensure a smooth transition when adopting robotics?

A successful transition starts with understanding business needs and identifying tasks that can be effectively automated. It’s important to involve employees early in the process, providing training to ensure they can work alongside robots seamlessly. Partnering with an experienced automation provider like ABB helps businesses develop a customized roadmap, ensuring a step-by-step integration that aligns with their objectives. Utilizing digital tools such as our RobotStudio® offline programming and simulation tool also allows businesses to create, test and simulate workflows before implementation, reducing risks and increasing efficiency.

Q: What role does ABB play in supporting SMEs that may feel hesitant about investing in robotics?

We understand that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may have concerns about costs and complexity. That’s why ABB focuses on making robotics more accessible through measures such as easy-to-use interfaces, and scalable solutions that allow businesses to start small and expand as needed. Our collaborative robots are particularly well-suited for SMEs, as they require minimal programming expertise and can be deployed quickly. We also offer expert guidance and training to ensure businesses maximize their return on investment.

Q: What advice would you give to businesses looking to start their automation journey?

Start by identifying areas in your operations where you can innovate by using automation to bring the most value. Then, when it comes to actually automating your process, don’t be afraid to take small steps—adopting even a single robotic solution can often lead to significant efficiency gains. Engage with experts, leverage digital simulation tools, and ensure employees are part of the journey. Most importantly, embrace automation as a long-term strategy to elevate your business to drive growth, innovation, and sustainability.