Discrete Automation Market Cover Image

Global Discrete Automation Market Trends Analysis By Component Segments (Robotics and Cobots, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)), By Industry Vertical Segments (Automotive Manufacturing, Electronics and Semiconductor), By Deployment Type Segments (On-Premises Automation Solutions, Cloud-Integrated Automation Systems), By Regions and?Forecast

Report ID : 50010405
Published Year : January 2026
No. Of Pages : 220+
Base Year : 2024
Format : PDF & Excel

Discrete Automation Market Market Size and Forecast 2026-2033

The Discrete Automation Market was valued at approximately USD 150 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 280 billion by 2033, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.5% from 2025 to 2033. This growth trajectory reflects increasing adoption across manufacturing sectors driven by Industry 4.0 initiatives, automation-driven productivity enhancements, and technological innovations. The market expansion is further supported by rising investments in smart factories, regulatory mandates for energy efficiency, and the proliferation of IoT-enabled automation solutions. As industries seek to optimize operational efficiency and reduce labor costs, discrete automation continues to emerge as a strategic imperative for competitive advantage.

What is Discrete Automation Market?

The Discrete Automation Market encompasses the design, manufacturing, and deployment of automated systems and machinery that perform specific, individual tasks within manufacturing and industrial processes. These systems include robotics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motion control devices, and industrial automation components tailored for discrete manufacturing sectors such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, and consumer goods. Discrete automation aims to enhance precision, speed, and flexibility in production lines, enabling manufacturers to achieve higher throughput and quality standards. The market is characterized by a focus on industry-specific innovations, seamless integration with digital ecosystems, and adherence to stringent regulatory compliance. As a critical enabler of Industry 4.0, discrete automation is transforming traditional manufacturing paradigms into intelligent, connected, and highly adaptable ecosystems.

Key Market Trends

The discrete automation landscape is witnessing rapid evolution driven by technological advancements and shifting industrial paradigms. Increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) with automation systems is enabling predictive maintenance and autonomous decision-making. The adoption of collaborative robots (cobots) is fostering safer and more flexible work environments. Industry-specific innovations are allowing customization of automation solutions to meet unique manufacturing needs. The rise of digital twins and simulation tools is improving system design and operational efficiency. Moreover, the push towards sustainable manufacturing practices is encouraging the deployment of energy-efficient automation technologies.

  • Integration of AI and IoT for predictive analytics and real-time monitoring
  • Growing adoption of collaborative robots (cobots) in assembly lines
  • Customization of automation solutions for industry-specific applications
  • Expansion of digital twin technology for simulation and optimization
  • Emphasis on sustainable and energy-efficient automation systems
  • Increased focus on cybersecurity within automation networks

Key Market Drivers

The primary drivers fueling growth in the discrete automation market include the relentless pursuit of operational efficiency and quality enhancement. Industry 4.0 initiatives are compelling manufacturers to adopt intelligent automation systems that enable seamless data exchange and real-time decision-making. Rising labor costs and the need for safer working environments are accelerating automation deployment. Technological innovations such as advanced robotics, sensor integration, and cloud connectivity are expanding the capabilities of discrete automation solutions. Additionally, regulatory frameworks emphasizing energy efficiency and safety standards are incentivizing investments in automation technologies.

  • Demand for increased productivity and reduced manufacturing cycle times
  • Cost reduction pressures and labor shortage challenges
  • Implementation of Industry 4.0 and smart factory initiatives
  • Technological advancements in robotics and sensor integration
  • Regulatory compliance emphasizing safety and environmental standards
  • Growing consumer demand for high-quality, customizable products

Key Market Restraints

Despite robust growth prospects, the discrete automation market faces several challenges. High initial capital expenditure and complex integration processes can deter small and medium-sized enterprises from adopting automation solutions. Rapid technological obsolescence and the need for continuous upgrades pose financial and operational risks. Concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities within interconnected automation networks are increasingly prominent. Additionally, skilled labor shortages in automation engineering and maintenance hinder deployment. Regulatory uncertainties and compliance costs, especially in emerging markets, further constrain market expansion.

  • High upfront investment costs and long ROI periods
  • Complexity of integrating automation with existing systems
  • Rapid pace of technological obsolescence
  • Cybersecurity threats targeting industrial control systems
  • Shortage of skilled workforce for automation deployment and maintenance
  • Regulatory and compliance complexities in diverse markets

Key Market Opportunities

The evolving landscape presents numerous opportunities for growth and innovation in the discrete automation sector. The proliferation of Industry 4.0 and smart manufacturing initiatives offers avenues for deploying integrated, data-driven automation solutions. Emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are experiencing rapid industrialization, creating new demand streams. The adoption of collaborative robotics and AI-powered systems is opening pathways for highly flexible and adaptive manufacturing environments. Additionally, advancements in sensor technology and wireless connectivity are enabling remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs. Sustainability mandates and energy-efficient automation solutions further enhance market prospects.

  • Expansion into emerging markets with growing manufacturing bases
  • Development of AI-enabled autonomous automation systems
  • Integration of IoT and cloud platforms for smarter factories
  • Customization of automation solutions for niche industry verticals
  • Focus on sustainability and energy-efficient automation technologies
  • Partnerships and collaborations for co-innovation and market penetration

Future Scope and Applications of Discrete Automation Market (2026 and Beyond)

By 2026, the Discrete Automation Market is poised to evolve into an even more intelligent, interconnected ecosystem, driven by advancements in AI, machine learning, and digital twin technologies. Future applications will include fully autonomous manufacturing lines capable of self-optimization, adaptive robotics that learn from operational data, and integrated supply chain automation. The proliferation of Industry 5.0 concepts will emphasize human-robot collaboration, sustainability, and resilience. Smart factories will leverage real-time data analytics to enable predictive maintenance, reduce waste, and enhance customization at scale. As regulatory landscapes tighten around safety and environmental standards, automation solutions will become more compliant, flexible, and capable of supporting circular economy initiatives.

Discrete Automation Market Market Segmentation Analysis

1. Component Segments

  • Robotics and Cobots
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • Motion Control Devices
  • Sensors and Actuators
  • Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
  • Industrial PCs and Edge Devices

2. Industry Vertical Segments

  • Automotive Manufacturing
  • Electronics and Semiconductor
  • Aerospace and Defense
  • Consumer Goods and Appliances
  • Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
  • Food and Beverage Processing

3. Deployment Type Segments

  • On-Premises Automation Solutions
  • Cloud-Integrated Automation Systems
  • Hybrid Deployment Models

Discrete Automation Market Market Regions

  • North America
    • United States
    • Canada
    • Mexico
  • Europe
    • Germany
    • United Kingdom
    • France
    • Italy
  • Asia-Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • South Korea
    • India
    • Singapore
  • Latin America
    • Brazil
    • Argentina
  • Middle East & Africa
    • South Africa
    • UAE

Key Players in the Discrete Automation Market

1. ABB Ltd.

  • ABB Group

2. Siemens AG

  • Siemens Digital Industries

3. Rockwell Automation

  • Rockwell Automation Inc.

4. Mitsubishi Electric Corporation

  • Mitsubishi Electric Automation

5. Schneider Electric SE

  • Schneider Electric Automation

6. Fanuc Corporation

  • Fanuc Corporation

7. Yaskawa Electric Corporation

  • Yaskawa Motoman

8. Omron Corporation

  • Omron Automation

9. Kawasaki Heavy Industries

  • Kawasaki Robotics

10. Bosch Rexroth AG

  • Bosch Rexroth Automation

11. Delta Electronics, Inc.

  • Delta Automation Solutions

12. Schneider Electric

  • EcoStruxure Automation

13. Emerson Electric Co.

  • Emerson Automation Solutions

14. Keyence Corporation

  • Keyence Automation Components

15. Universal Robots

  • Universal Robots (a Teradyne company)

    Detailed TOC of Discrete Automation Market

  1. Introduction of Discrete Automation Market
    1. Market Definition
    2. Market Segmentation
    3. Research Timelines
    4. Assumptions
    5. Limitations
  2. *This section outlines the product definition, assumptions and limitations considered while forecasting the market.
  3. Research Methodology
    1. Data Mining
    2. Secondary Research
    3. Primary Research
    4. Subject Matter Expert Advice
    5. Quality Check
    6. Final Review
    7. Data Triangulation
    8. Bottom-Up Approach
    9. Top-Down Approach
    10. Research Flow
  4. *This section highlights the detailed research methodology adopted while estimating the overall market helping clients understand the overall approach for market sizing.
  5. Executive Summary
    1. Market Overview
    2. Ecology Mapping
    3. Primary Research
    4. Absolute Market Opportunity
    5. Market Attractiveness
    6. Discrete Automation Market Geographical Analysis (CAGR %)
    7. Discrete Automation Market by Component Segments USD Million
    8. Discrete Automation Market by Industry Vertical Segments USD Million
    9. Discrete Automation Market by Deployment Type Segments USD Million
    10. Future Market Opportunities
    11. Product Lifeline
    12. Key Insights from Industry Experts
    13. Data Sources
  6. *This section covers comprehensive summary of the global market giving some quick pointers for corporate presentations.
  7. Discrete Automation Market Outlook
    1. Discrete Automation Market Evolution
    2. Market Drivers
      1. Driver 1
      2. Driver 2
    3. Market Restraints
      1. Restraint 1
      2. Restraint 2
    4. Market Opportunities
      1. Opportunity 1
      2. Opportunity 2
    5. Market Trends
      1. Trend 1
      2. Trend 2
    6. Porter's Five Forces Analysis
    7. Value Chain Analysis
    8. Pricing Analysis
    9. Macroeconomic Analysis
    10. Regulatory Framework
  8. *This section highlights the growth factors market opportunities, white spaces, market dynamics Value Chain Analysis, Porter's Five Forces Analysis, Pricing Analysis and Macroeconomic Analysis
  9. by Component Segments
    1. Overview
    2. Robotics and Cobots
    3. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
    4. Motion Control Devices
    5. Sensors and Actuators
    6. Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs)
    7. Industrial PCs and Edge Devices
  10. by Industry Vertical Segments
    1. Overview
    2. Automotive Manufacturing
    3. Electronics and Semiconductor
    4. Aerospace and Defense
    5. Consumer Goods and Appliances
    6. Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices
    7. Food and Beverage Processing
  11. by Deployment Type Segments
    1. Overview
    2. On-Premises Automation Solutions
    3. Cloud-Integrated Automation Systems
    4. Hybrid Deployment Models
  12. Discrete Automation Market by Geography
    1. Overview
    2. North America Market Estimates & Forecast 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
      1. U.S.
      2. Canada
      3. Mexico
    3. Europe Market Estimates & Forecast 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
      1. Germany
      2. United Kingdom
      3. France
      4. Italy
      5. Spain
      6. Rest of Europe
    4. Asia Pacific Market Estimates & Forecast 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
      1. China
      2. India
      3. Japan
      4. Rest of Asia Pacific
    5. Latin America Market Estimates & Forecast 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
      1. Brazil
      2. Argentina
      3. Rest of Latin America
    6. Middle East and Africa Market Estimates & Forecast 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
      1. Saudi Arabia
      2. UAE
      3. South Africa
      4. Rest of MEA
  13. This section covers global market analysis by key regions considered further broken down into its key contributing countries.
  14. Competitive Landscape
    1. Overview
    2. Company Market Ranking
    3. Key Developments
    4. Company Regional Footprint
    5. Company Industry Footprint
    6. ACE Matrix
  15. This section covers market analysis of competitors based on revenue tiers, single point view of portfolio across industry segments and their relative market position.
  16. Company Profiles
    1. Introduction
    2. ABB Group
      1. Company Overview
      2. Company Key Facts
      3. Business Breakdown
      4. Product Benchmarking
      5. Key Development
      6. Winning Imperatives*
      7. Current Focus & Strategies*
      8. Threat from Competitors*
      9. SWOT Analysis*
    3. Siemens Digital Industries
    4. Rockwell Automation Inc.
    5. Mitsubishi Electric Automation
    6. Schneider Electric Automation
    7. Fanuc Corporation
    8. Yaskawa Motoman
    9. Omron Automation
    10. Kawasaki Robotics
    11. Bosch Rexroth Automation
    12. Delta Automation Solutions
    13. EcoStruxure Automation
    14. Emerson Automation Solutions
    15. Keyence Automation Components
    16. Universal Robots (a Teradyne company)

  17. *This data will be provided for Top 3 market players*
    This section highlights the key competitors in the market, with a focus on presenting an in-depth analysis into their product offerings, profitability, footprint and a detailed strategy overview for top market participants.


  18. Verified Market Intelligence
    1. About Verified Market Intelligence
    2. Dynamic Data Visualization
      1. Country Vs Segment Analysis
      2. Market Overview by Geography
      3. Regional Level Overview


  19. Report FAQs
    1. How do I trust your report quality/data accuracy?
    2. My research requirement is very specific, can I customize this report?
    3. I have a pre-defined budget. Can I buy chapters/sections of this report?
    4. How do you arrive at these market numbers?
    5. Who are your clients?
    6. How will I receive this report?


  20. Report Disclaimer
  • ABB Group
  • Siemens Digital Industries
  • Rockwell Automation Inc.
  • Mitsubishi Electric Automation
  • Schneider Electric Automation
  • Fanuc Corporation
  • Yaskawa Motoman
  • Omron Automation
  • Kawasaki Robotics
  • Bosch Rexroth Automation
  • Delta Automation Solutions
  • EcoStruxure Automation
  • Emerson Automation Solutions
  • Keyence Automation Components
  • Universal Robots (a Teradyne company)


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Discrete Automation Market was valued at USD 150 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 280 Billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2025 to 2033.

  • Integration of AI and IoT for predictive analytics and real-time monitoring, Growing adoption of collaborative robots (cobots) in assembly lines, Customization of automation solutions for industry-specific applications are the factors driving the market in the forecasted period.

  • The major players in the Discrete Automation Market are ABB Group, Siemens Digital Industries, Rockwell Automation Inc., Mitsubishi Electric Automation, Schneider Electric Automation, Fanuc Corporation, Yaskawa Motoman, Omron Automation, Kawasaki Robotics, Bosch Rexroth Automation, Delta Automation Solutions, EcoStruxure Automation, Emerson Automation Solutions, Keyence Automation Components, Universal Robots (a Teradyne company).

  • The Discrete Automation Market is segmented based Component Segments, Industry Vertical Segments, Deployment Type Segments, and Geography.

  • A sample report for the Discrete Automation Market is available upon request through official website. Also, our 24/7 live chat and direct call support services are available to assist you in obtaining the sample report promptly.