What is modular automation and why does it matter?

“Agility is the foundation of resilience in a world that never stands still,” says Riku Puska, sales manager, W&D industry sales at Cimcorp Group. “Traditional automation often locks companies into fixed processes, making change difficult and expensive. With modular automation, businesses can scale strategically, adjust to new demands and stay competitive without being held back by outdated systems.”

Supply chain disruptions, shifting consumer demands and workforce challenges require automation that evolves alongside the business. Modular automation provides a future-ready framework, ensuring long-term adaptability without unnecessary risk or expense.

The competitive edge of modular automation

The ability to scale effortlessly is one of modular automation’s biggest advantages. Instead of investing in massive, rigid systems, companies can start with a targeted solution and expand as needed, ensuring automation grows in line with actual demand.

Flexibility is another game-changer. Modular systems allow businesses to adjust workflows on demand: whether to accommodate new product lines, handle seasonal demand spikes or optimise warehouse layouts. This adaptability is crucial in an environment where responsiveness determines success.

Efficiency is also a key driver. Optimised material flow combined with intelligent automation leads to higher throughput, reduced waste and lower operational costs. Businesses can improve order accuracy, shorten lead times and eliminate bottlenecks while minimising downtime.

Perhaps most importantly, modular automation helps future-proof operations. By enabling the seamless integration of new technologies, it ensures that businesses can adapt to industry advancements without costly system upgrades. This long-term adaptability makes modular automation a strategic investment, not just a short-term fix.

Scalable automation for dynamic industries 

In grocery retail, modular automation enables seamless expansion of modules, ensuring faster, more accurate fulfillment, even during seasonal peaks. Retailers can scale operations effortlessly as demand fluctuates, avoiding bottlenecks and reducing reliance on manual labour.

For tyre manufacturing, modular automation optimises material handling. This adaptability boosts efficiency, minimises downtime and keeps production lines agile in response to shifting market conditions.

“At Cimcorp, we believe automation should be as dynamic as the industries it serves,” says Jarno Honkanen, VP, Solutions & Technology. “With Dream Factory for tire production and Dreamfield for grocery retail, we provide modular solutions that allow companies to scale at their own pace. Businesses need automation that evolves with them, not systems that lock them into fixed, outdated processes.”

The future of modular automation

Modular automation will continue to evolve as businesses demand greater resilience and adaptability. Looking ahead, AI has the potential to transform automation systems, enabling them to self-optimise in real time, enhance operational efficiency and optimise workflows. With the ability to analyse vast datasets, AI could also support more predictive, data-driven decision-making, which helps businesses respond to shifting demands with greater agility.

At the same time, sustainability is becoming a driving force, with energy-efficient designs reducing waste and minimising environmental impact. Advances in automation are enabling companies to cut resource consumption while maintaining high productivity, supporting both cost savings and environmental goals.

“Automation is about agility,” concludes Puska. “With AI-driven optimisation and sustainable solutions, the ability to quickly adapt and refine automation strategies will define industry leaders in the years to come.”

cimcorp.com