The global lab automation market was estimated at USD 6.87 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.64% from 2023 to 2030. Laboratory automation involves the use of specialized technology designed to streamline or replace manual handling of processes and equipment. The extent and nature of automation are determined by the specific laboratory workflow. A notable increase in the adoption of automated instruments is typically seen in academic and research institutions, where these tools are used to enhance productivity and reduce the time required for various labor-intensive tasks.

Moreover, the growing utilization of automated instruments for drug discovery and development is expected to further drive market growth during the forecast period. For example, in June 2022, Insilico Medicine announced its intention to launch an automated, AI-driven robotics laboratory focused on drug discovery.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restrains and growth of the Lab Automation Market

One of the key factors fueling market expansion is the numerous benefits associated with process automation. In clinical laboratories, the shift from manual operations to automated systems brings several significant advantages. Some of the primary benefits of lab automation include increased productivity, improved safety in the working environment, reliable and consistent results, as well as considerable savings in time, effort, and overall product costs.

Process Segmentation Insights

The continuous flow segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 56.93% in 2022. This significant revenue growth can be attributed to the rising demand for continuous flow systems across various industries, as well as the increasing use of these systems in laboratories to provide high-quality services. Continuous flow techniques are among the most preferred methods, especially when there is a need to analyze a large volume of samples efficiently.

Additionally, there is a strong demand for continuous flow processes within pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. Increased initiatives by market players to introduce innovative products utilizing continuous flow processes are expected to further stimulate segment growth. For example, in October 2020, Sakura Finetek of Europe launched Tissue-Tek SmartConnect, a system designed for automated continuous flow that facilitates connecting, processing, and embedding tasks within histology laboratories.

In contrast, the discrete processing segment is anticipated to experience the fastest growth rate of 7.34% throughout the forecast period. The advantages of discrete processing over continuous flow are expected to drive its adoption during this time. This method allows for more space during sample analysis, which helps reduce the likelihood of reagent wastage. As a result, due to the various benefits associated with discrete processing, it is projected to present lucrative growth opportunities in the coming years.

Order a free sample PDF of the Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.