Global Construction Robots Market Size Analysis Report - Market Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook (2024-2032)

Construction Robots Market Analysis

The construction robots market is growing due to a primarily labor shortages, rising labor costs, and the push for enhanced productivity and safety on construction sites. With a global shortage of skilled labor, construction companies are increasingly turning to robotic solutions to automate tasks like bricklaying, welding, and demolition, which reduces dependency on human labor. For instance, according to a report by the International Federation of Robotics, the deployment of robots in construction has increased by over 20% annually in recent years, especially in developed markets, which boosts the construction robots market revenue.

Furthermore, in the United States alone, the construction industry faces a shortage of around 430,000 workers, a gap that robotic solutions are helping to fill by automating tasks such as bricklaying and welding. Robotic technologies can increase efficiency significantly.  For instance, a single bricklaying robot can place up to 1,000 bricks per hour, compared to a human worker's average of 300-500 bricks in the same timeframe. Additionally, autonomous earth-moving robots can complete tasks like trench digging up to 50% faster than manual methods. This focus on productivity also addresses safety concerns, with construction robots being used for tasks in hazardous environments. Demolition robots, for example, can carry out complex operations while keeping workers at a safe distance from potentially dangerous sites, which has led to a decrease in injury rates by approximately 25% on some projects. With these efficiencies, construction robots are becoming essential tools, supporting the industry as it addresses labor challenges and improves overall project timelines and safety outcomes.

Construction Robots Market Trends

Growing Adoption of Autonomous Robots

One key trend of construction robots market is the adoption of autonomous and semi-autonomous machinery, driven by advances in AI and sensor technology. These robots, including autonomous bulldozers and excavators, can perform tasks like grading, trenching, and site clearing with minimal human intervention. For example, Built Robotics offers autonomous earth-moving equipment that can operate 24/7, which increases project efficiency by approximately 35% over traditional methods. The adoption of such equipment is growing; over 1,000 autonomous construction robots were deployed globally in 2023, up from 750 the previous year. This trend reduces reliance on human labor, which is especially critical in markets facing severe labor shortages, and it helps contractors save on labor costs while enhancing precision and productivity on large-scale projects.

Increased Adoption of Exoskeletons

Another significant trend is the increasing use of robotic exoskeletons to enhance worker productivity and safety. These wearable robots assist with heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, and tasks that require extended periods of physical exertion. For instance, construction workers wearing robotic exoskeletons can lift loads up to 40% heavier with less strain, reducing fatigue and the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and contributing to the construction robots market value.

Major companies, like Ekso Bionics and Sarcos Robotics, are spearheading the adoption of these wearable devices on construction sites. The exoskeleton market within construction has seen an annual growth rate of about 15%, with approximately 2,000 units deployed in the industry as of 2023. This trend has a positive impact on worker well-being and retention, as well as on job site efficiency, by extending the physical capabilities of construction teams and allowing for safer handling of heavy materials.

Industry News

October 2024

A robotics expert, Dr. Tessa Lau, emphasised at the ICBA Construction Innovation Summit that the focus in construction should shift from mere productivity to enhancing quality. She highlighted how robots can improve communication and collaboration through virtual design and construction (VDC), ultimately reducing mistakes and waste on job sites.

October 2024

Amazon is launching a new warehouse in Shreveport, Louisiana, featuring 10 times as many robots, including the friendly Proteus and Sparrow, designed to assist human workers rather than replace them. This facility will employ 2,500 people and aims to integrate advanced robotic systems in all key production areas.

Opportunities in Construction Robots Market

The market offers significant opportunities driven by the demand for sustainable and efficient building practices, particularly in areas facing labor shortages and rising construction costs. As the global construction industry works to meet the needs of rapid urbanisation, projected to require an additional 13,000 buildings per day through 2050, robotics technology is increasingly essential.

For example, 3D printing robots, such as those from ICON, can construct a 500-square-foot home in under 24 hours, using less material and generating up to 60% less waste than traditional building methods, which can boost the demand of construction robots market. This type of innovation aligns with green building initiatives, appealing to environmentally conscious builders and investors. Additionally, infrastructure development projects worldwide, including smart city initiatives, represent a substantial opportunity. China alone plans to invest USD 1.6 trillion in infrastructure by 2025, and robotic technology is expected to play a vital role in expediting projects, reducing costs, and improving safety. Such advancements make the market ripe for growth as companies leverage robotics to address sustainability goals, enhance construction speed, and streamline labor-intensive tasks.

Construction Robots Market Restraints

The market faces significant restraints due to high initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs, which limit broader adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized firms. The average cost of implementing a construction robot, such as an autonomous excavator or a 3D printing system, can range from USD 150,000 to USD 500,000 per unit, depending on the robot's capabilities and application. For example, the Hadrian X bricklaying robot from FBR Ltd., used for automated bricklaying, costs over USD 350,000, a price point that can deter smaller construction firms from investing in such technology, which affects construction robots demand forecast. Additionally, the maintenance expenses, which include parts, software upgrades, and specialised training, can add approximately 10-20% of the initial cost each year.

According to a report from the National Institute of Building Sciences, the cost of training operators for high-tech construction equipment has increased by about 15% over the past five years. Furthermore, a survey by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that over 45% of construction firms cite financial constraints as the main reason for delaying or foregoing robotics adoption, especially in regions where labor costs are relatively low, such as parts of Southeast Asia.

Construction Robots Market Dynamics

The growing focus on reducing building material wastage and overall costs is a key trend in the construction robots market. These robots offer operational accuracy, reducing errors and minimising material wastage by up to 25%, which significantly cuts costs on large projects. According to recent government and industry data, around 30% of building materials transported to sites are wasted, a challenge that construction robots address by enhancing precision and minimizing human error. For instance, 3D printing robots like those developed by COBOD International have reduced material waste by up to 60% while expediting construction times. This trend is particularly prominent in countries like China, which is reporting a construction boom that requires innovative methods to meet the needs of urban dwellers and enhances construction robots market opportunities.

The escalating deployment of robotics automation to improve construction worker safety also boosts market growth. Robots are increasingly being used for lifting and transporting heavy loads, tasks that account for about 30% of workplace injuries in the construction industry. With the use of robotic exoskeletons, workers can lift to 40% heavier loads, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, aerial robotics, such as drones, are widely used for the inspection of construction sites, with the number of drones in use projected to reach over 20,000 by 2024, up from 11,000 in 2021. These drones help identify hazardous zones, ensuring a safer environment by allowing early detection of potential risks and maintaining strict safety protocols on active construction sites.

Construction Robots Industry Segmentation

“Construction Robots Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Construction robots refer to the category of industrial robots that assist in several building and construction tasks. These robots can improve work efficiency, reduce manual labour, minimise human errors, and perform repetitive and time-consuming tasks faster than humans.

Market Breakup by Robot Type

• Traditional Robot
• Robotic Arm
• Exoskeleton

Market Breakup by Function

• Demolition
• Bricklaying
• Material Handling
• 3D Printing
• Concrete Structural Erection
• Finishing Work
• Doors and Windows Installation
• Others

Breakup by Automation

• Fully Autonomous
• Semi-Autonomous

Market Breakup by Application

• Public Infrastructure
• Commercial and Residential Buildings
• Industrial
• Nuclear Dismantling and Demolition
• Others

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Construction Robots Market Share

By Robot Type Insights

Traditional Robots includes demolition and 3D printing robots, which have seen notable adoption for their ability to handle heavy, repetitive tasks. These robots are projected to grow at the fastest rate, with a CAGR of approximately 18.6% through 2030. Their primary function is to perform high-risk demolition work, allowing human workers to remain at safe distances. Companies like Brokk AB dominate this segment with their remote-controlled demolition robots, which reduce workplace accidents by up to 25% while improving efficiency on-site.

Robotic arms are currently the largest segment, capturing around 67.8% of the construction robots market share. These robots are widely used for tasks like bricklaying, welding, and painting. For example, PrintStones’ Baubot, a robotic arm, has been implemented in various construction sites for precise material handling and 3D printing applications. This segment’s growth is driven by the ability to reduce construction time and material waste by up to 30%, making them essential for large projects that require speed and accuracy.

Exoskeletons are gaining traction as wearable robots that assist construction workers in lifting heavy materials, reducing physical strain. While still emerging, this segment has seen annual growth of about 15% as firms increasingly adopt these devices to minimize musculoskeletal injuries and enhance worker productivity. Ekso Bionics, for instance, provides exoskeleton suits that allow workers to lift 40% heavier loads with less fatigue. These robots are especially valued in sectors with labor shortages, as they enable fewer workers to perform labor-intensive tasks more effectively.

By Function Insights

Demolition robots, which accounted for USD 301.5 million in 2023, are crucial for reducing workplace hazards in demolition activities. For example, Brokk AB’s remote-controlled demolition robots are widely used in North America and Asia-Pacific, especially in projects requiring the safe removal of hazardous materials. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demolition work is among the riskiest in construction. Robots help reduce injuries by keeping workers at a safe distance. In Japan, demolition robots are being used to dismantle aging infrastructure safely, aligning with government initiatives to modernise the country's construction processes, which can boost the growth of the construction robots industry. This segment's rapid growth enhances the market’s appeal, particularly in infrastructure-heavy regions, due to heightened safety and efficiency.

Bricklaying is also gaining significant growth in the market. The Hadrian X by FBR Ltd. can lay up to 1,000 bricks per hour, which is 4-5 times faster than human labor, significantly reducing project timelines and labor costs. The Australian Government’s Innovation and Science Australia report highlights that the use of bricklaying robots aligns with their push toward advanced construction technologies to address skilled labor shortages. With this technology, projects in high-demand areas, such as the Middle East, can be completed more quickly, supporting regional infrastructure development goals. The demand for rapid and scalable solutions in housing development accelerates this segment's market penetration, especially in fast-growing urban areas.

By Automation Insights

Fully autonomous robots are seeing increased deployment due to advances in AI and robotics. In March 2024, GITAI USA showcased its autonomous construction robots on a simulated lunar surface, where they successfully assembled a communication tower. This highlights the adaptability of fully autonomous systems in extreme environments, underscoring their potential for large-scale infrastructure projects on Earth. Additionally, Built Robotics recently introduced its next-generation robotic systems for excavation, road construction and site grading, which can operate continuously on construction sites, enhancing project speed and efficiency.  Another example, autonomous bricklaying robots in construction robots market by FBR Ltd. can lay thousands of bricks per day with high precision, reducing labor costs and project durations on construction sites. These robots are particularly beneficial for infrastructure projects, as they ensure consistent quality and can work 24/7, improving overall productivity on complex construction projects.

Semi-Autonomous Robots are widely adopted due to its flexibility, combining human oversight with robotic capabilities. Recently, Brokk launched an upgraded version of its demolition robot, which features enhanced remote control capabilities and can work in confined spaces, a valuable feature for demolition in urban settings. In 2023, Advanced Construction Robotics introduced the IronBOT, a semi-autonomous rebar-laying robot that can lift and position heavy rebar with minimal manual input. This robot has been deployed in large infrastructure projects, including highway and bridge construction in North America, where it has significantly reduced the physical strain on workers and increased site safety by minimising direct human involvement in hazardous tasks.

By Application Insights

Public infrastructure segment is experiencing rapid growth, driven by major government investments in infrastructure projects. in the u.S. alone, autonomous construction robots are being used on over 1,000 infrastructure projects, addressing labor shortages by increasing productivity by up to 40%. In China, the demand for automated equipment has surged with projects like the Belt and Road Initiative, where robots are integral to faster construction on massive road and rail networks, boosting the construction robots market expansion.

Commercial and residential buildings is also witnessing substantial growth as robots are streamlining building construction by reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency. For example, bricklaying robots by FBR Ltd. can place up to 1,000 bricks per hour, effectively replacing the work of 2-3 human laborers. This segment has seen an estimated 30% increase in robot adoption across North America and Europe, where modular construction is on the rise, aided by robots for tasks like cutting and assembly in prefabricated units.

Construction Robots Market Regional Insights

North America Construction Robots Market Trends

North America leads the construction robots market, largely due to high labor costs and an increasing focus on safety and automation. In 2023, over 1,200 construction projects in the U.S. alone incorporated robotic systems for tasks like earthmoving and material handling, enhancing efficiency by up to 30%. As per the construction robots market dynamics and trends, the U.S. government has allocated funds to expand robotic use in public infrastructure, aiming to integrate autonomous systems into approximately 40% of large infrastructure projects by 2025. Canada is following suit, with 300 demolition and material-handling robots in use across the country, particularly in urban redevelopment projects.

Asia Pacific Construction Robots Market Drivers

Asia Pacific accounts for a sizeable share of the global market due to the increased migration to cities in developing economies. Due to the rise in job opportunities and growing standards of living, individuals are moving to major cities, which provides a positive outlook to the market. With the growing labour shortage and ageing population in countries like Japan and Singapore, the usage of construction robots is likely to increase and boost construction robots demand growth. Moreover, a surge in government spending in the construction sector to mitigate the shortage of housing in big cities is also a prominent regional driver.

With the fastest growth in the construction robots market, Asia Pacific is leveraging robotics to meet urbanization demands. China leads in robotic deployment, with over 2,000 robots currently in use across construction sites, focusing on large-scale projects such as high-rise buildings and transport infrastructure. Following Japan’s earthquake-prone policies, around 400 demolition robots are employed in infrastructure reconstruction, especially for buildings over 20 years old. In India, robotic deployment has risen sharply, with a 20% increase in demand for material-handling robots in urban construction zones, driven by safety and labor efficiency needs.

Europe Construction Robots Market Opportunities

Europe is a frontrunner in using construction robots for sustainable and precision-focused tasks, supported by strict safety regulations. Germany has deployed approximately 500 bricklaying robots on construction sites, cutting down project time by 35%. As per the construction robots industry analysis, across Europe, nearly 250 demolition robots are used annually for nuclear facility decommissioning, significantly minimising human exposure to radiation.

The U.K. is also advancing in robotic construction, with over 300 robots used in modular and prefabricated housing projects to reduce labor by up to 50% and improve building accuracy. Europe’s focus on automation is set to include robotic integration in nearly 50% of public infrastructure projects by 2026.

Latin America Construction Robots Market Growth

In LATAM, the construction robots market is growing as countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina focus on modernising infrastructure. Brazil has deployed over 200 demolition robots in urban redevelopment projects to improve efficiency and safety, particularly in regions with dense populations, which can also fuel the construction robots market development.

In Mexico, construction robots are used in residential and commercial projects, with a reported 15% increase in robotic deployment for tasks like bricklaying and concrete pouring over the past two years. The LATAM region is leveraging robotics to overcome labor challenges and meet rising urbanisation demands, aiming to increase productivity and reduce costs associated with traditional construction methods.

Middle East and Africa Construction Robots Market Dynamics

The MEA region is experiencing growth of the construction robots market, driven by large-scale infrastructure projects and smart city initiatives, particularly in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. For example, the UAE has launched a "Dubai 3D Printing Strategy" to make 25% of new buildings constructed with 3D printing technology by 2030. In Saudi Arabia, over 300 robots are deployed for tasks such as autonomous earthmoving and material handling in megaprojects like NEOM. Additionally, construction robots are increasingly used in high-temperature environments, where they can work continuously and reduce human labor requirements. The MEA region’s focus on automation and innovation is aimed at addressing labor shortages and improving safety on complex projects.

Innovative Start-ups in Construction Robots Market

Start-ups in the construction robots market primarily focus on automation technologies that enhance productivity, reduce costs, and improve safety on job sites. Many of these start-ups, such as Dusty Robotics and Built Robotics, are innovating with autonomous equipment like earth movers, digital layout printers, and rebar-tying robots, which streamline labor-intensive tasks. They are also leveraging AI-driven solutions for real-time data analysis and precision in construction processes. According to industry reports, the goal is to create versatile robots in construction robots market that can operate continuously and adapt to various construction environments, providing up to a 40% boost in operational efficiency compared to traditional methods.

Built Robotics

Founded in 2016 in San Francisco, California, Built Robotics specialises in retrofitting heavy construction machinery to make it autonomous, specifically focusing on excavators and bulldozers. With over USD 112 million in total funding, Built Robotics' autonomous machinery has been utilised on large-scale projects, covering nearly USD 1 billion in total project value. Their equipment can operate up to 24 hours a day, boosting productivity by 30-40% compared to traditional methods. The company has deployed over 50 autonomous systems across the U.S., helping to alleviate labor shortages in the construction industry.

Dusty Robotics

Established in 2018 and based in Mountain View, California, Dusty Robotics has revolutionised construction layout tasks with its FieldPrinter robot, which prints digital blueprints directly onto the construction site floor. By automating this process, Dusty Robotics has reduced layout time by up to 80% and achieved layout precision within a 1/16-inch accuracy. With over USD 68 million in funding and robots deployed on more than 250 construction sites, Dusty Robotics has saved the industry over 15,000 hours in layout tasks, reducing rework costs by up to 30%. The company’s technology has been used in projects exceeding USD 500 million in value, helping contractors minimise errors and streamline construction processes.

Competitive Landscape

Market players in the construction robots market are primarily focused on technological advancements, particularly in automation and robotics. Key trends include the development of collaborative robots (cobots), such as Dusty Robotics, which assists in layout tasks by automating the process of marking floor plans on job sites. Companies like Built Robotics are creating autonomous excavators that can be adapted for various construction tasks, allowing for customisation based on project needs. The integration of IoT is exemplified by Smartvid.io, which uses AI to analyse job site data, enhancing safety and productivity through real-time performance monitoring. Additionally, firms like ICON are pioneering 3D printing technology for sustainable construction, addressing labor shortages while promoting eco-friendly building methods.

Key Industry Players

ABB Ltd.

Founded in 1988, it is a multinational company which has its headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland. The company provides industrial robots, drives, building automation systems, and motors and generators, among others.

Advanced Construction Robotics, Inc.

It is an autonomous robotic equipment manufacturer which was founded in 2016. The company, with its headquarters in Pennsylvania, the United States, provides robotic equipment to improve productivity in the construction sector.

Brokk AB

Founded in 1976 and based in Skellefteå, Sweden, it is a remote-controlled demolition robot manufacturer. It provides demolition robots and equipment for the construction, mining, and tunnelling sectors, among others.

Fanuc Corporation

Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Oshino-mura, Japan, it is a global leader in automation, specialising in robotics and CNC systems. With approximately 8,000 employees, it operates extensively across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and South Africa.

Other construction robots market players include KUKA AG, Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc., Husqvarna AB, Conjet, Construction Robotics LLC, and Yaskawa Electric Corporation, among others.

Recent Developments

October 2024

Advanced Construction Robotics (ACR) has launched the TyBOT 3.0, a robotic rebar-tying solution designed to enhance safety and productivity on construction sites. This model can tie over 1,200 intersections per hour without requiring pre-programming, making it user-friendly and efficient.

October 2024

Vayu Robotics has launched the world's first on-road delivery robot, capable of navigating autonomously without pre-mapping roads. The robot, which can carry up to 100 lbs and travel at speeds under 20 mph, utilizes a unique combination of AI models and low-cost passive sensors instead of traditional LiDAR technology. Recently, Vayu secured a significant contract to deploy 2,500 robots for a major e-commerce company, indicating strong market demand for innovative delivery solutions.

September 2024

FBR has achieved a significant milestone by completing the walls of the first home built in the U.S. using its Hadrian X bricklaying robot. This project, in partnership with Florida builders New Century USA and Christopher Alan Homes, showcases the robot's capabilities in one of the largest residential construction markets globally.