Automation: A Critical Imperative for Modern Moldmakers

My first visit to Bolton, Ontario, to see Husky—an injection‑machine and mold‑making pioneer—remained vivid over the past 25 years. The marketing executive proudly toured the spotless campus, showcasing how even the messiest of industrial environments could be kept pristine. It was a testament to Husky’s commitment to precision and quality.

During the tour, a striking two‑page spread caught my eye. The article, written by Husky’s founder Robert Schad for a leading plastics trade publication, bore the headline “Automate or Die.” The dramatic title resonated with a future that was already unfolding: the shift toward automation that would redefine the mold‑making industry.

Bob Schad was a visionary, and his foresight remains relevant. After selling Husky, he founded Athena Automation (now Niigon Machines Ltd.), underscoring his dedication to innovation. For decades, U.S. molders lagged behind their European counterparts in adopting automated solutions—until recent trends accelerated the pace dramatically.

Our parent company, Gardner Business Media, runs Gardner Intelligence, a research arm that annually surveys custom and captive processors about capital‑expenditure plans. From 2008 to 2018, investment in robotics nearly doubled, reflecting a clear industry shift toward automation.

Key insights from the latest survey:

• 20% plan to automate for improved productivity and efficiency.
• 19% aim to increase capacity.
• 16% target quality improvements.
• 16% intend to update existing technology.

These numbers show that the primary drivers of automation are not just workforce shortages but a holistic drive for higher performance. Molders now face a wide array of robotic and automated solutions—each suited to different operational goals. In this issue, we dedicate 10 pages to help you evaluate the three major robot categories and choose the best fit for your facility.

The manufacturing landscape evolves rapidly. By the time this article reaches you, further changes may have occurred. The choice is clear: automate or risk obsolescence. Let’s explore how to stay ahead of the curve.