Global Laboratory Automation Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

The global laboratory automation market is segmented by product type into two primary categories: equipment and software & informatics. In the equipment segment, automated workstations play a significant role, including subtypes such as automated liquid handling, automated integrated workstations, pipetting systems, reagent dispensers, and microplate washers. Additionally, microplate readers, both multi-mode and single-mode, as well as automated ELISA systems, automated nucleic acid purification systems, and robotic systems, are essential components. The software & informatics segment includes various solutions such as workstation/unit automation software, laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic laboratory notebooks, and scientific data management systems, which enhance the operational efficiency and data integrity in laboratories.

In terms of process, the laboratory automation market is primarily divided into two types: continuous flow and discrete processing. Continuous flow systems are generally used for applications that require uninterrupted, high-volume processing, while discrete processing systems are designed for applications where individual samples need to be processed in isolation. Both types of processes are crucial in optimizing laboratory operations, improving throughput, and reducing human errors. The choice between these processes depends on the specific laboratory needs, such as throughput, accuracy, and sample diversity.

The market is also segmented by application, with drug discovery, clinical diagnostics, genomics solutions, and proteomics solutions being key drivers of laboratory automation. Drug discovery relies heavily on automation for high-throughput screening, compound management, and data analysis, while clinical diagnostics benefit from automated processes that streamline sample analysis and reporting. Genomics and proteomics solutions require automated systems for tasks such as sample preparation, sequencing, and data analysis, making laboratory automation essential for advancing research and clinical diagnostics in these fields.

The laboratory automation market serves various end users, including biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, research institutes, and other sectors. Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies utilize automation to enhance research and development processes, ensuring faster time-to-market for new drugs and treatments. Research institutes, particularly those focused on academic research and innovation, adopt automation to handle complex experiments efficiently and accurately. Geographically, the market is distributed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America, with North America and Europe leading the market due to advanced technological infrastructure, followed by Asia Pacific, where the demand for laboratory automation is growing due to expanding healthcare and research industries.

Global Laboratory Automation Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by Product Type, Process, Application, End User and Geography.

Global Laboratory Automation Market, Segmentation by Product Type

The Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by Product Type into Equipment and Software & Informatics.

Equipment comprises a wide range of automation tools and instruments designed to streamline laboratory workflows and tasks. This includes automated liquid handling systems, robotic workstations, microplate readers, and other laboratory instruments. These equipment are vital for automating repetitive tasks such as sample preparation, pipetting, and assay handling, thereby improving accuracy, reproducibility, and throughput in laboratory operations. As laboratories strive for higher efficiency and throughput while minimizing errors and contamination risks, the demand for sophisticated automation equipment continues to grow.

Software & informatics play an equally crucial role in laboratory automation. This segment includes laboratory information management systems (LIMS), electronic lab notebooks (ELN), laboratory execution systems (LES), and other software solutions designed to manage and analyze laboratory data, workflows, and processes. With the increasing volume and complexity of data generated in modern laboratories, there is a growing need for robust informatics solutions to organize, store, analyze, and share data efficiently. These software platforms integrate with laboratory instruments and automation systems to provide end-to-end automation solutions, enabling seamless data flow and process optimization.

The segmentation of the global laboratory automation market into equipment and software & informatics reflects the diverse technological landscape and the complementary role played by both hardware and software solutions in automating laboratory processes. As laboratories continue to adopt automation to improve efficiency, accuracy, and productivity, both segments are expected to witness sustained growth and innovation, driven by ongoing technological advancements and evolving customer needs.

Global Laboratory Automation Market, Segmentation by Process

The Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by Process into Continuous Flow, and Discrete Processing.

The Global Laboratory Automation Market is categorized into two primary segments based on process: continuous flow and discrete processing. Continuous flow automation involves the uninterrupted and streamlined movement of samples or materials through the system, often used in high-throughput environments. This process ensures efficient data generation and sample processing, making it ideal for industries requiring large-scale testing and analysis. Continuous flow systems are commonly implemented in environments such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, where precision and speed are crucial.

On the other hand, discrete processing automation is focused on individual sample handling. It enables a more tailored approach to each sample, often involving complex analysis and manual intervention. This segment is beneficial for laboratory environments where customization and high levels of accuracy are essential. Examples of applications for discrete processing include clinical diagnostics and research facilities, where the handling of a variety of test types and procedures is necessary. It allows laboratories to process multiple samples independently, optimizing flexibility and adaptability.

Both continuous flow and discrete processing segments play significant roles in the advancement of laboratory automation. The adoption of these processes is driven by the need for faster, more accurate results, which are critical in research, testing, and diagnostic procedures. Continuous flow systems support industries with a focus on large-scale sample throughput, while discrete processing is more suited for specialized, high-precision tasks. As technology continues to evolve, these segments are expected to expand, further integrating automation in laboratory settings to improve efficiency and outcomes.

Global Laboratory Automation Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by Application into Drug Discovery, Clinical Diagnostics, Genomics Solutions and Proteomics Solutions.

One of the key segments contributing to this growth is drug discovery. In drug discovery, laboratory automation plays a crucial role by streamlining processes such as high-throughput screening, compound management, and data analysis. Automation not only accelerates the drug discovery process but also improves the quality and reliability of results, ultimately leading to faster development of new drugs.

Another important application segment within the laboratory automation market is clinical diagnostics. Automation in clinical diagnostics enables laboratories to handle large volumes of samples efficiently, reducing turnaround times and improving diagnostic accuracy. Automated systems for tasks such as sample preparation, specimen handling, and result interpretation enhance laboratory productivity and contribute to better patient outcomes. Moreover, automation in clinical diagnostics is becoming increasingly vital for managing the growing demand for diagnostic testing, particularly in areas such as infectious diseases, oncology, and genetic testing.

Genomics solutions represent another significant segment driving growth in the laboratory automation market. With the rapid advancements in genomic technologies, there is a growing need for automated systems to handle complex workflows involved in DNA sequencing, genotyping, and gene expression analysis. Automation not only enables high-throughput processing of genomic samples but also ensures precision and reproducibility, which are critical for genomic research, personalized medicine, and clinical diagnostics. Additionally, automation in genomics accelerates the pace of scientific discovery and facilitates the translation of genomic insights into clinical applications.

Proteomics solutions round out the key application segments of the laboratory automation market. Proteomics, the study of proteins and their functions, involves complex analytical techniques such as protein separation, identification, and quantification. Automation streamlines these processes, allowing for increased throughput, improved reproducibility, and enhanced sensitivity in protein analysis. Automated proteomics platforms enable researchers to unravel the complexities of biological systems, identify biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prognosis, and accelerate drug discovery efforts targeting protein-based therapeutics. Overall, the adoption of automation in proteomics is driving innovation and advancing our understanding of complex biological processes.

Global Laboratory Automation Market, Segmentation by End User

The Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by End User into Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Industries, Research Institutes and Others.

Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Industries represent a substantial portion of the laboratory automation market. These sectors heavily rely on automation to streamline their research and development processes, enhance productivity, and ensure the quality and consistency of their products. With the growing emphasis on drug discovery and development, coupled with the need for high-throughput screening and analysis, laboratory automation solutions have become indispensable for biotech and pharma companies.

Research Institutes also constitute a significant end-user segment in the laboratory automation market. These institutes encompass academic research centers, government laboratories, and independent research organizations. They leverage automation technologies to conduct experiments, analyze data, and facilitate scientific discoveries across various disciplines. By automating routine tasks, researchers can focus more on data interpretation and innovation, accelerating the pace of scientific breakthroughs.

The Others category in the end-user segmentation includes a diverse range of sectors such as clinical diagnostics, contract research organizations (CROs), forensic laboratories, and food safety testing laboratories. While these segments may have distinct requirements and workflows, they share the common goal of improving efficiency, precision, and throughput through laboratory automation solutions. As regulatory standards become more stringent and the demand for personalized healthcare grows, these sectors are increasingly adopting automation to meet the evolving challenges in their respective fields.

Global Laboratory Automation Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Laboratory Automation Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Laboratory Automation Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America stands as a dominant region in the laboratory automation market, owing to the presence of well-established healthcare infrastructure, a high level of adoption of advanced technologies, and substantial investments in research and development activities. The region is also home to several key players in the laboratory automation industry, contributing to its leadership position in the market.

Europe follows closely behind North America in terms of market share, with countries like Germany, the UK, and France being significant contributors to the growth of the laboratory automation market. The region benefits from government initiatives promoting laboratory automation, along with a strong focus on precision medicine and personalized healthcare solutions.

The Asia Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth in the laboratory automation market, fueled by increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure, rising demand for improved laboratory efficiency, and expanding research and development activities. Countries such as China, Japan, and India are key markets within the region, driven by factors such as a large patient population, growing pharmaceutical industry, and increasing adoption of automation technologies.

The Middle East and Africa, as well as Latin America, are emerging as promising markets for laboratory automation, albeit at a slower pace compared to other regions. Factors such as improving healthcare infrastructure, rising healthcare expenditure, and growing awareness about the benefits of automation are expected to drive market growth in these regions in the coming years.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Laboratory Automation Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers:

• Technological advancements
• Increasing demand for efficiency
• Rising laboratory costs

• Growing need for accuracy: The global laboratory automation market has witnessed remarkable growth driven by the increasing demand for accuracy in scientific research and experimentation. Laboratories across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare, are increasingly relying on automation to streamline processes and improve precision. With the growing complexity of experiments and the need for reliable results, automation solutions offer a means to reduce human error and enhance efficiency. This trend is particularly evident in high-throughput screening, genomics, and drug discovery applications, where precise measurements and consistent protocols are critical for success.

  The rising adoption of automation in laboratories is fueled by the need to cope with growing workloads and limited resources. Laboratories are under pressure to deliver results faster while maintaining high standards of accuracy and reproducibility. Automation systems enable researchers to handle large volumes of samples with minimal manual intervention, leading to faster turnaround times and increased productivity. Additionally, automation enhances data integrity by reducing the risk of transcription errors and sample contamination, thus improving the overall quality of research outcomes.

  Advancements in technology, such as robotics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, are driving innovation in laboratory automation solutions. These technologies enable sophisticated automation workflows, allowing for complex experiments to be conducted with precision and consistency. As a result, laboratories can achieve higher levels of accuracy and reliability in their scientific endeavors, leading to improved decision-making and accelerated scientific discoveries. With the continuous evolution of automation technologies and the growing emphasis on accuracy in research, the global laboratory automation market is poised for further expansion in the coming years.

Restraints:

• High initial investment required
• Integration challenges with existing systems
• Concerns regarding data security

• Resistance to automation adoption: The global laboratory automation market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by the need for increased efficiency, accuracy, and productivity in laboratory workflows. However, despite the numerous benefits offered by automation technologies, there remains resistance to adoption in certain segments of the market. One primary reason for this resistance is the initial investment required for implementing automation systems. Laboratories may hesitate to invest in automation due to concerns about the upfront costs, especially if they are uncertain about the long-term benefits or return on investment.

  Another factor contributing to resistance is the fear of job displacement among laboratory personnel. Automation has the potential to streamline processes and reduce the need for manual labor, leading to concerns about job security among lab technicians and other staff. Additionally, there may be apprehension about the complexity of automation systems and the perceived difficulty of integrating them into existing workflows. Laboratories may be hesitant to disrupt established processes or invest time and resources in training staff to use new technologies effectively.

  Regulatory compliance and validation requirements can pose challenges to automation adoption in the laboratory setting. Laboratories must ensure that automated systems meet regulatory standards for data integrity, accuracy, and reliability. This involves rigorous testing and validation procedures, which can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Laboratories may be hesitant to adopt automation if they perceive compliance requirements as burdensome or if they lack the expertise to navigate regulatory challenges effectively. Despite these barriers, the benefits of laboratory automation, including improved efficiency, reproducibility, and data quality, are driving continued investment and innovation in the market. Overcoming resistance to adoption will require addressing concerns related to cost, job displacement, complexity, and regulatory compliance through education, training, and technological advancements tailored to the needs of laboratory professionals.

Opportunities:

• Expansion in emerging markets
• Development of innovative automation solutions
• Collaboration with research institutions

• Integration of AI and machine learning: The global laboratory automation market has witnessed a significant surge, driven by the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies. These advancements have revolutionized the way laboratories operate, offering unparalleled efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. By leveraging AI and ML algorithms, laboratory automation systems can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, enabling researchers to make informed decisions swiftly. This integration has streamlined various processes, including sample preparation, data analysis, and result interpretation, leading to improved research outcomes and accelerated scientific discoveries.

  One of the key benefits of integrating AI and ML in laboratory automation is the optimization of experimental workflows. These technologies can adapt and optimize processes based on historical data, experimental parameters, and desired outcomes, leading to more precise and reproducible results. Moreover, AI-powered systems can identify patterns and correlations within complex datasets, uncovering valuable insights that may have otherwise remained hidden. This capability not only enhances the efficiency of laboratory operations but also facilitates innovation by enabling researchers to explore new hypotheses and experimental approaches more effectively.

  The integration of AI and ML in laboratory automation fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing across scientific disciplines. By automating routine tasks and data analysis, researchers can focus their expertise on more complex and intellectually stimulating aspects of their work. This collaborative environment encourages interdisciplinary research initiatives and fosters a culture of innovation within the scientific community. As AI and ML technologies continue to evolve, their integration into laboratory automation is expected to drive further advancements, ultimately revolutionizing the landscape of scientific research and discovery.

Key players in Global Laboratory Automation Market include:

• Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc
• Agilent Technologies, Inc
• Danaher Corporation
• PerkinElmer, Inc
• Tecan Group Ltd
• Hamilton Company
• Sartorius AG
• Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD)
• Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc
• Eppendorf AG

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis