MTC opens robot experience centre to boost uptake in the UK
16 June 2026 
The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) has launched a Robot Experience Centre (REC) to help UK manufacturers to accelerate their adoption of robotics and automation technologies. Located at MTC’s Ansty Park site in Coventry, the vendor-neutral facility will allow manufacturers to explore, test and validate robotic systems before making any purchases.
The initiative is designed to tackle barriers to robotics adoption in UK manufacturing, particularly among SMEs, where challenges around skills, procurement and implementation are hindering the wider use of these machines.
The centre consists of three areas:
- a modular automation and robotics sandpit for project development and experimentation;
- a demonstration space for applications such as welding, palletising and machine tending; and
- a collaborative robot (cobot) development area.
The centre will also offer training and expert support to help businesses build their skills, increase confidence and implement automation systems. A training programme, called Robotics and Automation Adoption for Small to Medium Sized Enterprises, will provide practical guidance on evaluating, procuring and integrating robotics technologies.
To support manufacturers beyond the initial adoption stage, the MTC is establishing partnerships with systems integrators to help businesses to move from proof-of-concept to production, reducing implementation challenges and the need for re-engineering, and accelerating the delivery and cost-effectiveness of automation projects. The MTC will also connect potential adopters of robotics with finance providers to help them find the most suitable funding options.
“The Robot Experience Centre is about helping businesses understand what automation can do for them in a practical and accessible way,” says the MTC’s chief automation officer, Mike Wilson. “For many manufacturers, especially SMEs, the challenge isn’t recognising the potential benefits of robotics – it’s knowing where to start.
“By giving businesses access to testbeds, expertise and training under one roof, we’re helping them to make investments that will improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and ultimately, support long-term growth for UK manufacturing.”
The centre was opened by Richard Parker, mayor of the West Midlands. Speaking at the launch, he said: “If we want to help more businesses in the West Midlands to modernise production, stay competitive and grow, we’ve got to make it easier for them to get the support they need – whether that’s new technology, funding or the right expertise.
“That’s why we’re working more closely with organisations across the region to join things up and provide support that actually works for businesses on the ground. We’re already doing that through programmes like the West Midlands Investment Zone Supply Chain Transition Programme, collaborating with partners including the MTC to back manufacturers and help them move forward.
“The Robot Experience Centre is exactly the kind of capability that supports this wider approach,” Parker added, “helping more companies see what’s possible, build confidence and take that next step to make the investment they need to grow with confidence.”
