The global construction robots market, valued at US$ 91.2 Mn in 2021, is on the path to major expansion. Growing at a strong CAGR of 15.3% from 2022 to 2031, the market is projected to reach US$ 359.6 Mn by 2031. With rising labor shortages, increasing urbanization, and the demand for faster, safer, and more sustainable construction methods, robots are steadily reshaping the global construction landscape.

Why Construction Robots are in Demand

The construction industry has traditionally lagged in automation compared to manufacturing and automotive sectors. However, the need for environment-friendly housing, reduced project timelines, and solutions to labor shortages is fueling interest in construction robotics. High accident rates and the hazardous nature of construction work further push companies to adopt robotic solutions for greater efficiency, safety, and precision.

Robots can perform repetitive and dangerous tasks such as bricklaying, painting, welding, or demolition—allowing construction teams to focus on complex and creative problem-solving. They also operate 24/7, significantly reducing downtime and speeding up project delivery.

Market Drivers

1. Enhanced Productivity & Efficiency

Robotic systems enable faster construction while minimizing human error. Applications range from 3D printing of houses to robotic welding and material handling. They also improve sustainability, as automation reduces waste through better design and execution.

2. Rapid Urbanization

Global urban migration is placing pressure on housing, infrastructure, and utilities. The U.S. Census Bureau reported construction spending of US$ 1.74 Trn in April 2022, up 12.3% year-on-year. As cities expand, robotics will play a critical role in delivering large-scale projects at speed.

3. Safety & Risk Reduction

Construction remains one of the most dangerous industries, with high fatality rates in demolition and high-rise projects. Robots improve safety by handling heavy loads and operating in hazardous zones. For example, demolition robots held 35.4% market share in 2021, highlighting their growing importance.

Key Market Segments

• By Type: Demolition robots, 3D-printing robots, bricklaying robots, material handling robots, surveillance robots, and others (painting, welding).
• By Automation: Semi-autonomous robots dominate with 58.4% share, as they balance automation with human oversight for complex projects.
• By Application: Widely used in residential buildings, commercial projects, and public infrastructure, with infrastructure projects driving large-scale adoption.

Regional Insights

• North America leads the market with 36.1% share, supported by rising infrastructure investments and the U.S. government’s US$ 1.2 Trn Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
• Europe and Asia Pacific are witnessing steady adoption due to labor shortages and high accident rates, while Middle East & Africa is emerging as a fast-growing region fueled by large-scale construction projects.

Competitive Landscape

The market is moderately consolidated, with both global corporations and specialized robotics firms shaping the future. Key players include ABB Ltd., Advanced Construction Robotics Inc., ANYbotics AG, Brokk AB, FANUC America Corporation, Komatsu, and Blue Ocean Robotics.

Recent innovations underscore the momentum:

• FANUC America (2022): Launched the M-1000iA robot with a 1,000 kg payload capacity, designed for heavy construction materials.
• Brokk AB (2019): Introduced the Brokk 520D diesel demolition robot, compliant with global emission standards, making it the most eco-friendly in its category.

Conclusion

The construction industry is entering a transformational era, where robotics and automation are no longer optional but essential. With the global market expected to quadruple by 2031, robotics will be at the heart of solving labor shortages, improving safety, and enabling sustainable construction.

For construction companies, early adoption offers a competitive edge delivering projects faster, safer, and more cost-effectively. As technology advances, construction robots will shift from being niche innovations to mainstream drivers of industry growth.