Top 5 UK Industrial Automation Companies to look out for in 2026

The next generation of UK automation companies is transforming how factories operate, combining robotics, digitalisation and intelligent control systems. These emerging firms are agile, innovative and focused on delivering smarter, more efficient manufacturing solutions that meet the demands of Industry 4.0.

Geku Automation (Kent)

Geku is evolving from a traditional robot integrator into a forward-thinking automation company. It delivers turnkey robotic cells using Cartesian, six-axis and collaborative robots, supported by offline programming and diagnostics. Its experience spans aerospace, plastics and general manufacturing, with all systems designed, built and tested in Kent.

Strengths:

• Flexible deployment of ABB and other multi-brand robot systems.

• Fast offline programming and optimisation for uptime-critical environments.

Premier Automation (Bedfordshire)

Premier Automation is an emerging UK integrator specialising in robot retrofits and control upgrades. The company focuses on helping manufacturers modernise legacy equipment without full system replacement, offering practical and cost-effective automation solutions.

Strengths:

• Smart retrofits and reprogramming to extend equipment life.

• Cost-conscious engineering that delivers measurable performance improvements.

DelaControl (Bristol)

DelaControl is one of the UK’s fastest-growing control and automation firms, providing complete system delivery from electrical design and panel build to PLC, HMI and SCADA programming, motion control and robotics integration. Its one-roof approach and ISO-aligned quality systems make it a trusted partner for manufacturers and machine builders across a wide spectrum of industries.

Strengths:

• Comprehensive control and machinery solutions from design to commissioning.

• Proven track record across regulated industries seeking reliable automation partners.

Q-Bot (London)

Q-Bot is redefining automation in the built environment through the development of field robots and digital compliance platforms for housing and infrastructure. By applying industrial robotics and telemetry to the construction and retrofit sectors, Q-Bot is helping to deliver sustainable and efficient solutions for local authorities and contractors.

Strengths:

• Scalable robotic systems for housing and infrastructure projects.

• Combining sustainability goals with automation and data-driven oversight.

ALPHR Technology (Hertfordshire)

ALPHR Technology is a growing leader in bespoke factory automation, with expertise in automated test and measurement, robotics and modular assembly systems. The company works across automotive, aerospace, medical and electronics sectors, focusing on precision, traceability and high-throughput production.

Strengths:

• Advanced test and inspection systems for high-value manufacturing.

• Modular automation combining robotics with digital data capture.

Conclusion

These upcoming UK automation companies represent the future of British manufacturing: innovative, efficient and built on engineering excellence. From DelaControl’s end-to-end integration to Q-Bot’s sustainability-driven robotics and ALPHR’s advanced test systems, each company contributes to a smarter, more connected industrial landscape. As Industry 4.0 continues to evolve, these firms are set to play a central role in shaping the next decade of UK industrial automation.