Discrete (Factory) Automation: Technology, Scale and the Next Wave of Industrial Investment

The discrete (factory) automation market is entering a new phase of growth, driven by structural megatrends and rapid advances in AI-enabled technologies. The global market is valued at approximately $150 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach around $200 billion by 2030.
 
Manufacturers are facing increasing pressure from labour shortages, supply chain volatility and rising quality and sustainability requirements. As a result, automation has become a strategic necessity rather than a discretionary investment. At the same time, advances in physical AI, intelligent robotics and digital twin technologies are enabling more flexible, adaptive and data-driven production systems.

These dynamics are accelerating the shift towards intelligent factories, where software-defined automation platforms improve throughput, quality and operational resilience. New models such as Robotics-as-a-Service and lifecycle analytics are also reshaping how value is delivered across the automation value chain.

In this report, L.E.K. Consulting and Harris Williams explore key market trends, emerging technologies and investment themes shaping the sector, alongside M&A activity and investor priorities.

Download the full report to find out more.

You can read part one of series here: Process Industry Automation: Control, Resilience and Investment Opportunities