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How Cobots & Refurbished Robots Are Changing the Game for Businesses

Updated: Nov 9

Refurbished Robot Kuka Palletiser

Introduction

For decades, automation has been the reserve of large manufacturers with the budgets to absorb hefty upfront costs and complex systems. Historically, industrial robots have demanded deep pockets, extensive reconfiguration, and significant downtime, placing them well out of reach for smaller firms. However, the arrival of cost effective collaborative robots (cobots) and a growing market for refurbished industrial robots is reshaping the automation landscape entirely.


Both new and established businesses now have far more accessible options to increase productivity, reduce labour costs and remain competitive in increasingly demanding markets. Here’s what you need to consider.


The Historic Cost of Automation

Traditional industrial automation has long been associated with eye watering capital expenditure. In the early 2000s, the average cost of installing a single six-axis robot could easily exceed £100,000. Add to that the need for ongoing maintenance, specialist training, and system downtime and it becomes clear why automation was once reserved for the automotive and heavy engineering sectors.


Installation times were slow, return on investment (ROI) stretched into years, and flexibility was minimal, making traditional automation a risky proposition for many SMEs.


The Rise of Collaborative Robots (Cobots)

Cobots have emerged as a compelling alternative. Designed to work safely more closely with humans, cobots offer a leaner, more adaptable approach. They typically come with intuitive interfaces, faster deployment times, and much lower costs, typically starting from £40,000.


Cobots are ideal for applications such as pick and place, light assembly, packaging and quality inspection, perfect for manufacturers looking to automate without a complete factory overhaul. Their smaller footprint and ease of programming also mean they can be moved between tasks with minimal disruption.


Cobot Palletiser with Vacuum gripper

Refurbished Industrial Robots

For businesses needing the strength and speed of traditional six-axis robots but without the premium price tag, the refurbished market has become an increasingly viable route.


Reputable suppliers now offer fully refurbished units from top brands like KUKA, ABB, and FANUC, often with new controllers, warranty and integration support. Prices can be 40-60% lower than buying new, with little to no compromise on performance. This opens the door to heavier-duty automation for businesses that previously couldn’t justify the spend.


Key Points to Consider Before Automating

  • Volume & Repetition: Automation works best where tasks are repetitive, predictable and high in volume. Cobots, however, allow more flexibility in low to medium volume work too.

  • Labour Costs & Availability: In regions or sectors facing labour shortages, automation can provide stability and continuity.

  • Floor Space: Cobots and compact refurbished robots can suit tight production areas where traditional systems would be too intrusive.

  • Skill Set: Cobots are often user friendly, but integrating any robot requires some technical capacity, either in house or through a trusted integrator.

  • Future Scaling: Consider if the solution you’re looking at today can scale with your business tomorrow.



Cobots & Refurbished Robots

Cobots and refurbished robots could play a pivotal role in the future of UK manufacturing, offering a practical route to modernisation without the financial strain traditionally associated with automation. As the sector faces increasing pressure from rising labour costs, skills shortages and global competition, these flexible, affordable technologies present a compelling solution. Cobots, with their ease of use and adaptability, are ideal for SMEs looking to incrementally automate without disrupting existing workflows. Meanwhile, refurbished industrial robots provide a cost effective way to increase output and consistency in more demanding environments. Together, they offer a realistic path for British manufacturers to enhance productivity, maintain competitiveness and futureproof their operations in the fast changing industrial landscape.


Making Automation Work for You

The automation market is no longer a one-size-fits-all proposition. With cobots and refurbished robots, businesses have a wider toolkit than ever before, one that balances cost, flexibility, and return on investment.


New businesses can start lean, integrating one or two cobots to increase throughput or relieve staff from monotonous tasks. Established firms, on the other hand, might look to refurbished industrial robots to increase productivity without major capital outlay.


The key is to take a step back, assess your production needs, and match the right technology to your process. Automation doesn’t have to be an all or nothing move. Start small, prove the value, and scale as you grow.







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