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Charlotte Stonestreet
Managing Editor |
Industry Update
Automation and robotics for growth
24 April 2025
Taking place 7-8 May at the Coventry Building Society Arena, Automation UK will bring together leading manufacturers and suppliers of automation, robotics and vision technology

ORGANISED BY trade association, Automate UK, the main aim of Automation UK is to highlight the significance of automation and robotics for the growth of the UK economy. The event seeks to inspire more businesses to invest in these technologies by demonstrating the benefits they can deliver to businesses.
Having developed significantly since its inaugural show in 2023, Automation UK provides the perfect platform for businesses to showcase their cutting-edge solutions, network with like-minded peers and learn more about the latest trends and developments impacting the industry.
Developing the visitor experience, this year Vision UK, previously known as Machine Vision Conference (MVC), will an integral part of Automation UK 2025.
“In order to provide an enhanced experience, this year’s show has been combined with Vision UK to raise the profile of the machine vision and automation industries in one integrated event. Vision UK will have a dedicated section within the exhibition for machine vision companies to showcase the latest industrial vision technologies, products and innovations,” comments Scott McKenna, chief operating officer at Automate UK.
Automation UK 2025 features a comprehensive seminar schedule. “Our seminars will cover a wealth of information from how to attract and retain emerging talent in manufacturing in light of the skills shortage currently impacting the sector, to updates in safety standards and how collaborative robot applications are being adjusted to facilitate it," says McKenna.
Of particular note, one of the keynote speakers for the event will be Jake Hall, the "Manufacturing Millennial", making his first UK speaking appearance. Hall, who spent 10 years working in automation distribution and systems integration around robotics, machine vision, motion control, digital software, and smart manufacturing, will address visitors on how automation will invigorate the sector by leveraging technology to benefit manufacturers and their workforce, adapting new types of automation from robotics, AI and digital twins, building excitement for the next generation pursuing manufacturing careers and engaging with those already working within the sector on enhancing their skills and job satisfaction.
Further speakers comfirmed include Mike Loughran of Rockwell, Daniel Smalley of Siemens, and Kevin Kolkea of KUKA.
“With five theatres at our disposal we have an expert and a topic to suit everyone attending this year’s show and we are proud of the diverse itinerary of insight and knowledge we have to share with visitors," comments McKenna.
“Our seminars will cover a wealth of information from how to attract and retain emerging talent in manufacturing in light of the skills shortage currently impacting the sector, to updates in safety standards and how collaborative robot applications are being adjusted to facilitate it.
“To give visitors the opportunity to get the most from the event, we’ve begun a series of pre-show webinars, which will set the stage for what’s to come at Automation UK 2025 and ensure that attendees have access to the best possible tools when it comes to expanding their knowledge, exploring new technologies, or gaining strategic insights,” said McKenna.
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