Spanish small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector can enhance productivity through robot adoption, according to a study published on July 8, 2026, by researchers from the Open University of Catalonia (UOC). However, this increase in productivity does not necessarily translate into higher export levels.
Impact of Robots on SME Productivity
The research indicates that SMEs with fewer workers and lower innovation levels experience the most significant productivity gains from integrating robots. "The smaller the firm, the greater the increase in productivity when robots are introduced. However, in firms with more workers, the increase is not so significant," said Carles Méndez, co-author of the study.
Analyzing data from nearly 5,000 manufacturing firms from 1990 to 2016, the study highlights that while robotization enhances productivity, it does not automatically lead to increased exports. For SMEs, factors such as regional economic conditions play a crucial role in their international presence.
Regional Economic Factors Affecting Exports
The study found a strong link between the presence of related firms in a region and the export capacity of SMEs. "We found a significant positive relationship between the presence of firms in the same sector and the export capacity of SMEs," Méndez noted. This suggests that localized economies can enhance SMEs' ability to engage in international markets.
