Disappointing Quarter for US Robot Sales

The Robotics Industries Association (RIA) reports that North American sales of robotics fell some 30% in the first quarter of 2006. The figure is especially disappointing given that 2005 was a bumper year for robot sales.

During the quarter American companies ordered 3,722 robots with a total value of $272 million.

It seems that the slowdown is largely due to a downturn in buying from the motor industry. Purchases by automotive OEMs and component suppliers declined 39%.

The news was better in other sectors, with sales growth in many areas.

The RIA estimates that 160,000 robots are now installed in American factories.