Key Insights
The European automated material handling (AMH) industry is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing need for efficiency and productivity improvements across various sectors. With a market size exceeding €XX million in 2025 and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.70% projected through 2033, the market demonstrates significant potential. Key drivers include the surging e-commerce sector demanding faster order fulfillment, rising labor costs prompting automation adoption, and the growing focus on optimizing supply chains for resilience and agility. The most prominent segments are automated guided vehicles (AGVs), encompassing automated forklifts, tow tractors, and unit load systems, along with automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) and robotic sortation systems. Growth is particularly strong in the warehousing and distribution, automotive, and food and beverage sectors, reflecting the industry's crucial role in streamlining logistics and production processes. Germany, France, and the UK represent major markets within Europe, but significant opportunities exist in Central and Eastern Europe as automation adoption accelerates. While high initial investment costs and technological complexities present certain restraints, ongoing technological advancements, coupled with favorable government policies supporting automation, are mitigating these challenges and fueling continued market expansion.
The diverse range of AMH equipment, including mobile robots, laser-guided vehicles, and automated conveyors, caters to a wide array of industry needs. The software and services segment plays a crucial supporting role, enhancing the functionality and overall efficiency of AMH systems. Major players like Daifuku, Viastore, and KUKA are leading the market with innovative solutions, while emerging players are further intensifying competition and innovation. The market is segmented by equipment type, end-user vertical, and geography, with granular data providing insights into regional market dynamics. Forecasting indicates that continued expansion across various sectors, particularly e-commerce and manufacturing, will propel the European AMH market to significant heights in the coming years, presenting both significant opportunities and challenges for stakeholders. The integration of advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, will further shape the future landscape, creating a dynamic and highly competitive industry environment.
Europe Automated Material Handling Industry: Market Report 2019-2033
This comprehensive report provides a detailed analysis of the European automated material handling industry, offering invaluable insights for industry professionals, investors, and strategic decision-makers. The report covers the period 2019-2033, with a focus on the 2025-2033 forecast period. Key market segments, leading players, and future trends are thoroughly examined. Download now to gain a competitive edge!

Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Market Structure & Innovation Trends
The European automated material handling market is characterized by a moderately concentrated structure, with several large multinational players and a significant number of smaller, specialized companies. Major players like Daifuku Co Limited, Viastore Systems GmbH, Murata Machinery Limited, Witron Logistik, TGW Logistics Group GmbH, Kardex Group, KUKA AG, Honeywell Intelligrated, Beumer Group GMBH & Co KG, Vanderlande Industries BV, SSI SCHAEFER AG, and Mecalux SA hold significant market share, though precise figures vary by segment. The market is experiencing rapid innovation driven by the increasing demand for efficiency, automation, and improved supply chain management across various industries.
- Market Concentration: The top 10 players account for an estimated 60% of the market.
- Innovation Drivers: E-commerce growth, Industry 4.0 adoption, and labor shortages fuel demand for advanced automation.
- Regulatory Framework: EU regulations on safety, data privacy, and environmental impact shape technology adoption.
- Product Substitutes: Traditional manual material handling methods are being replaced gradually.
- End-User Demographics: The automotive, e-commerce, and food and beverage sectors are key drivers of growth.
- M&A Activities: The past five years have witnessed several significant mergers and acquisitions, with deal values totaling approximately €XX Million. These transactions have primarily focused on expanding product portfolios and market reach.

Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Market Dynamics & Trends
The European automated material handling market is experiencing robust growth, driven by several key factors. The rising adoption of e-commerce and the increasing complexity of supply chains necessitate efficient and automated solutions. Technological advancements, particularly in robotics, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), are significantly impacting the industry. Consumer preference for faster delivery times and increased transparency in logistics further fuels the demand for automation. However, the market also faces competitive pressures, with various companies vying for market share through innovation and strategic partnerships. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for the period 2025-2033 is projected at XX%, with market penetration expected to reach XX% by 2033. This growth is uneven across segments and countries, with certain regions and technologies showing faster adoption rates than others. The market is further shaped by factors such as fluctuating energy prices, evolving labor regulations and the increasing focus on sustainability.

Dominant Regions & Segments in Europe Automated Material Handling Industry
By Country: Germany currently holds the largest market share in Europe due to its strong automotive and manufacturing sectors, followed by the United Kingdom and France. However, Central and Eastern European countries are showing strong growth potential due to increasing foreign investment and industrial development. Key drivers in these regions include:
- Government incentives for automation and modernization of logistics infrastructure.
- Growing manufacturing activity and expansion of distribution networks.
By Equipment Type: Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are currently the most dominant segments. Mobile robots and robotic sortation systems are experiencing rapid growth driven by technological advancements and increased efficiency.
By End-user Vertical: The retail/warehousing/distribution center sector accounts for the largest share, followed by automotive and food and beverage. The pharmaceutical and e-commerce sectors are expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driving demand for specialized automation solutions.
Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Product Innovations
Recent innovations focus on enhancing efficiency, flexibility, and safety. The integration of AI and machine learning enables intelligent routing, predictive maintenance, and improved decision-making. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are becoming increasingly sophisticated, capable of navigating complex environments and handling various tasks. The adoption of cloud-based software solutions improves data management and connectivity across the supply chain. These innovations cater to evolving market needs and provide businesses with a competitive edge in a rapidly changing landscape.
Report Scope & Segmentation Analysis
This report provides a comprehensive overview of the European automated material handling market, segmented by equipment type, end-user vertical, country, and product type. Growth projections and market sizes are provided for each segment. The competitive landscape is analyzed, highlighting key players and their strategies. Each segment's analysis includes specific growth projections and market size estimations. For example, the AGV market is expected to grow at a CAGR of XX% during the forecast period. The report also analyzes the competitive dynamics within each segment.
Key Drivers of Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Growth
Several factors are driving the growth of the European automated material handling industry. These include the growing e-commerce sector demanding efficient order fulfillment, advancements in robotics and AI leading to more efficient and flexible automation solutions, labor shortages pushing businesses to automate processes, and government initiatives supporting the adoption of smart manufacturing and logistics. Increased investment in warehouse automation and the rising focus on sustainability are also contributing to this growth.
Challenges in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Sector
The industry faces several challenges, including high initial investment costs for automation technologies, concerns regarding the integration of new systems with existing infrastructure, potential job displacement due to automation, and the need for skilled labor to operate and maintain advanced systems. Supply chain disruptions and the volatility of raw material prices also pose significant risks. The industry's carbon footprint is another crucial aspect to tackle for environmentally responsible growth.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Automated Material Handling Industry
Significant opportunities exist in the development and adoption of collaborative robots (cobots), advanced warehouse management systems (WMS), and the integration of AI-powered solutions for predictive maintenance and optimization. Growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient solutions presents further opportunities. Expansion into new geographic markets and the development of specialized automation solutions for niche industries are also key areas of growth.
Leading Players in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Market
- Daifuku Co Limited
- Viastore Systems GmbH
- Murata Machinery Limited
- Witron Logistik
- TGW Logistics Group GmbH
- Kardex Group
- KUKA AG
- Honeywell Intelligrated
- Beumer Group GMBH & Co KG
- Vanderlande Industries BV
- SSI SCHAEFER AG
- Mecalux SA
Key Developments in Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Industry
- March 2021: XPO Logistics launched an autonomous forklift truck technology pilot program with Balyo.
- May 2021: Third Wave Automation and Toyota Industries Corp. partnered to develop next-generation autonomous material handling vehicles. These developments showcase the industry's focus on autonomous technologies and strategic collaborations to drive innovation.
Future Outlook for Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Market
The European automated material handling market is poised for continued growth driven by ongoing technological advancements, increasing demand for efficient logistics solutions, and government support for automation initiatives. Strategic partnerships and investments in research and development will shape the industry's future, paving the way for further innovation and market expansion. The increasing adoption of AI, machine learning and IoT will enhance the sector's efficiency and competitiveness.
Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Segmentation
-
1. Product Type
- 1.1. Hardware
- 1.2. Software
- 1.3. Services
-
2. Equipment Type
-
2.1. Mobile Robots
-
2.1.1. Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)
- 2.1.1.1. Automated Forklift
- 2.1.1.2. Automated Tow/Tractor/Tug
- 2.1.1.3. Unit Load
- 2.1.1.4. Assembly Line
- 2.1.1.5. Special Purpose
- 2.1.2. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)
- 2.1.3. Laser Guided Vehicle
-
2.1.1. Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)
-
2.2. Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)
- 2.2.1. Fixed Aisle (Stacker Crane + Shuttle System)
- 2.2.2. Carousel (Horizontal Carousel + Vertical Carousel)
- 2.2.3. Vertical Lift Module
-
2.3. Automated Conveyor
- 2.3.1. Belt
- 2.3.2. Roller
- 2.3.3. Pallet
- 2.3.4. Overhead
-
2.4. Palletizer
- 2.4.1. Conventional (High Level + Low Level)
- 2.4.2. Robotic
- 2.5. Sortation System
-
2.1. Mobile Robots
-
3. End-user Vertical
- 3.1. Airport
- 3.2. Automotive
- 3.3. Food and Beverage
- 3.4. Retail/W
- 3.5. General Manufacturing
- 3.6. Pharmaceuticals
- 3.7. Post and Parcel
- 3.8. Other End Users
Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Segmentation By Geography
-
1. Europe
- 1.1. United Kingdom
- 1.2. Germany
- 1.3. France
- 1.4. Italy
- 1.5. Spain
- 1.6. Netherlands
- 1.7. Belgium
- 1.8. Sweden
- 1.9. Norway
- 1.10. Poland
- 1.11. Denmark

Europe Automated Material Handling Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 8.70% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Wide Adoption of Automation in Warehouse Applications; Supporting Government Policies for Automation; Industry 4.0 investments driving the demand for automation and material handling
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Shortage of Skilled Workforce; High Initial Costs
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Automotive is Expected to Register a Significant Growth
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 5.1.1. Hardware
- 5.1.2. Software
- 5.1.3. Services
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Equipment Type
- 5.2.1. Mobile Robots
- 5.2.1.1. Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)
- 5.2.1.1.1. Automated Forklift
- 5.2.1.1.2. Automated Tow/Tractor/Tug
- 5.2.1.1.3. Unit Load
- 5.2.1.1.4. Assembly Line
- 5.2.1.1.5. Special Purpose
- 5.2.1.2. Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)
- 5.2.1.3. Laser Guided Vehicle
- 5.2.1.1. Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)
- 5.2.2. Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)
- 5.2.2.1. Fixed Aisle (Stacker Crane + Shuttle System)
- 5.2.2.2. Carousel (Horizontal Carousel + Vertical Carousel)
- 5.2.2.3. Vertical Lift Module
- 5.2.3. Automated Conveyor
- 5.2.3.1. Belt
- 5.2.3.2. Roller
- 5.2.3.3. Pallet
- 5.2.3.4. Overhead
- 5.2.4. Palletizer
- 5.2.4.1. Conventional (High Level + Low Level)
- 5.2.4.2. Robotic
- 5.2.5. Sortation System
- 5.2.1. Mobile Robots
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by End-user Vertical
- 5.3.1. Airport
- 5.3.2. Automotive
- 5.3.3. Food and Beverage
- 5.3.4. Retail/W
- 5.3.5. General Manufacturing
- 5.3.6. Pharmaceuticals
- 5.3.7. Post and Parcel
- 5.3.8. Other End Users
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Product Type
- 6. Germany Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. France Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Italy Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. United Kingdom Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10. Netherlands Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11. Sweden Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12. Rest of Europe Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13. Competitive Analysis
- 13.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 13.2. Company Profiles
- 13.2.1 Daifuku Co Limited
- 13.2.1.1. Overview
- 13.2.1.2. Products
- 13.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.2 Viastore Systems GmbH*List Not Exhaustive
- 13.2.2.1. Overview
- 13.2.2.2. Products
- 13.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.3 Murata Machinery Limited
- 13.2.3.1. Overview
- 13.2.3.2. Products
- 13.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.4 Witron Logistik
- 13.2.4.1. Overview
- 13.2.4.2. Products
- 13.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.5 TGW Logistics Group GmbH
- 13.2.5.1. Overview
- 13.2.5.2. Products
- 13.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.6 Kardex Group
- 13.2.6.1. Overview
- 13.2.6.2. Products
- 13.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.7 KUKA AG
- 13.2.7.1. Overview
- 13.2.7.2. Products
- 13.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.8 Honeywell Intelligrated
- 13.2.8.1. Overview
- 13.2.8.2. Products
- 13.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.9 Beumer Group GMBH & Co KG
- 13.2.9.1. Overview
- 13.2.9.2. Products
- 13.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.10 Vanderlande Industries BV
- 13.2.10.1. Overview
- 13.2.10.2. Products
- 13.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.11 SSI SCHAEFER AG
- 13.2.11.1. Overview
- 13.2.11.2. Products
- 13.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.12 Mecalux SA
- 13.2.12.1. Overview
- 13.2.12.2. Products
- 13.2.12.3. SWOT Analysis
- 13.2.12.4. Recent Developments
- 13.2.12.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 13.2.1 Daifuku Co Limited
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Equipment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: Germany Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: France Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: Italy Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: United Kingdom Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Netherlands Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Sweden Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Rest of Europe Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Product Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Equipment Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by End-user Vertical 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: United Kingdom Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Germany Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: France Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Italy Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Spain Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Netherlands Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Belgium Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Sweden Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Norway Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Poland Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Denmark Europe Automated Material Handling Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 8.70%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry?
Key companies in the market include Daifuku Co Limited, Viastore Systems GmbH*List Not Exhaustive, Murata Machinery Limited, Witron Logistik, TGW Logistics Group GmbH, Kardex Group, KUKA AG, Honeywell Intelligrated, Beumer Group GMBH & Co KG, Vanderlande Industries BV, SSI SCHAEFER AG, Mecalux SA.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry?
The market segments include Product Type, Equipment Type, End-user Vertical.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD XX Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Wide Adoption of Automation in Warehouse Applications; Supporting Government Policies for Automation; Industry 4.0 investments driving the demand for automation and material handling.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Automotive is Expected to Register a Significant Growth.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Shortage of Skilled Workforce; High Initial Costs.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
March 2021 -XPO Logistics, a global provider of transport and logistics solutions, launched a new autonomous forklift truck technology pilot program in collaboration with Balyo, a specialist developer of robotics for goods handling equipment.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 4950, and USD 6800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Automated Material Handling Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Automated Material Handling Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence