Preparing the published article.
Where Robot Manufacturing Clusters Form
Clusters follow customers, components and people.
Why clusters exist
- Downstream manufacturers concentrate, pulling integrators towards them.
- Component suppliers shorten lead times inside the cluster.
- Testing and training platforms lower the early cost of new products.
- Engineers and technicians are easier to hire where the industry already is.
What it means for a buyer
| Factor | Inside the cluster | Outside |
|---|---|---|
| Component lead time | Short, small batches possible | Longer, larger minimums |
| Service response | Local engineers available | Travel-dependent |
| Cost | Lower integration cost | Lower rent and wages |