1 Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Insight Analysis
The global Robotic Milking Machines market is valued at USD 1,950.21 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 11.77% from 2024 to 2033.
Robotic Milking Machines can function to give feed or supplements to the cows, as well as track body weight, milk yield, temperature, and more to help with health and wellness tracking. With sensors, milking cups attach to the teats of the cow from underneath, after sanitation to minimize mastitis. The robot then continues to milk the cow until finished, detaches from the cow, and she is free to go from the machine.
Figure Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Robotic Milking Machines Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
Improve production efficiency and save labor costs: In dairy farming, milking is time-consuming and labor-intensive, accounting for about 25-35% of the farm’s annual labor demand. The application of robotic milking machines significantly reduces labor demand, freeing dairy farmers from tedious milking work and allowing them to devote their time and energy to other production links. The automated milking process improves milking efficiency, ensures a steady increase in milk production, and creates better economic benefits for dairy farmers.
Promote the development of the dairy industry and expand market demand: The global dairy market is large and continues to grow. According to Statista data, the global dairy market was valued at approximately US$720 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow to US$1,032 billion by 2024. The booming dairy industry has led to a surge in demand for efficient milking equipment. As an advanced milking equipment, robotic milking machines have naturally become the darling of the market, and market demand has continued to rise.
Technological innovation empowers and improves product performance: With the continuous advancement of science and technology, the production technology of robotic milking machines continues to innovate. The application of sensors and robotics technology enables milking machines to monitor key information such as the health status of dairy cows and milk quality in real time, providing strong support for precision farming. The automated and intelligent production model not only improves product quality, but also reduces production costs, further promoting market growth.
Insufficient technical support affects the user experience: Robotic milking machine technology is complex and requires high technical support. However, at present, most traditional dairy equipment dealers lack relevant technical capabilities and cannot provide effective technical guidance and maintenance services to dairy farmers. This makes some small farms face many difficulties when introducing robotic milking machines, such as equipment failures cannot be repaired in time, software updates are not timely, etc., which affects the normal use and promotion of equipment.
Strict regulations and standards increase compliance costs: Dairy regulations and standards have very strict requirements on milking equipment, such as the P.M.O. and 3-A standards in the United States, and relevant directives in the European Union. Robotic milking machines must strictly comply with these regulations during production and use, including pre-milking inspections, abnormal detection, and diversion of unqualified milk. This undoubtedly increases the production costs and operational difficulties of enterprises and limits the development speed of the market.
Intensified market competition and increased pressure on enterprises: With the development of the robotic milking machine market, more and more enterprises have entered this field, and market competition has become increasingly fierce. In order to stand out from the competition, enterprises have to increase R&D investment and reduce product prices, which has squeezed the profit margins of enterprises. Fierce competition may also lead to disorderly development of the market. Some enterprises ignore product quality in pursuit of short-term interests, which affects the reputation of the entire industry and the healthy development of the market.
3 Technological Innovations in the Robotic Milking Machines Market
Application of sensor and monitoring technology: With the help of advanced sensor technology, the robotic milking machine can monitor a number of key information of dairy cows in real time during the milking process, such as udder health, milk quality, reproductive status, feed intake and weight changes. Through these detailed data, farmers can have a deep understanding of the health and production status of each dairy cow, find problems in time and take corresponding measures to achieve precision breeding and improve the health level and milk production of dairy cows.
Development of automation and intelligence: The automation and intelligence of production technology are important innovation directions for robotic milking machines. This not only improves milking efficiency, reduces manual intervention, but also reduces production costs. The intelligent software system can automatically adjust milking parameters according to the individual differences and production needs of dairy cows, and realize personalized milking services. In the future, with the continuous advancement of technology, the automation and intelligence of robotic milking machines will be further improved, bringing higher efficiency and quality to dairy production.
BouMatic acquires SAC Group: In October 2021, BouMatic acquired SAC Group. SAC has rich experience in the production of milking systems. Its products cover traditional and automatic milking systems, and are easy to use and maintain. The acquisition enables BouMatic to expand its global market share, enrich its product range, and enhance its competitiveness in the dairy equipment market.
DeLaval acquires milkrite InterPuls: In July 2020, DeLaval acquired milkrite InterPuls. The latter is a leading global provider of milking point solutions. This acquisition will help DeLaval further improve its layout in the field of dairy solutions, improve the quality of products and services, and consolidate its position in the market.
GEA’s business adjustments: In December 2021, GEA upgraded the DairyRobot R9500 and optimized the In-Liner Everything process to make the milking process more efficient and hygienic. In November 2020, GEA decided to sell part of its farm technology business to focus on the automation and digitalization of milking equipment. These measures reflect GEA’s keen insight into market trends and strategic adjustments, which will help it maintain its competitive advantage in its core business areas.
4 Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size by Type
Semi-automatic milking machines are designed to reduce manual labor while still requiring some human intervention. These machines are often more affordable compared to fully-automatic systems, making them accessible to smaller dairy farms and family ranches. In 2024, the revenue generated by semi-automatic milking machines is expected to be $344.14 million USD. This represents a market share of approximately 17.65% of the total global robotic milking machines market.
The growth of semi-automatic milking machines is driven by their cost-effectiveness and suitability for smaller-scale dairy operations. These machines are particularly popular in regions where labor costs are relatively high, but the scale of dairy farming does not justify the investment in fully-automatic systems. As the market continues to evolve, semi-automatic milking machines are expected to maintain a steady presence, especially among family ranches and small to medium-sized dairy farms.
Fully-automatic milking machines represent the cutting-edge of dairy automation technology. These systems are capable of completing the entire milking process without any direct human intervention, from teat cleaning and stimulation to milk harvesting and post-milking teat care. In 2024, the revenue generated by fully-automatic milking machines is projected to be $1,606.07 million USD, accounting for 82.35% of the total market revenue.
The dominance of fully-automatic milking machines can be attributed to their high efficiency, improved milk quality, and enhanced animal welfare. These systems are particularly suited for large-scale dairy operations, joint-stock ranches, and regions with advanced agricultural infrastructure. The primary markets for fully-automatic milking machines include Europe, North America, and other developed regions where labor costs are high, and the scale of dairy farming justifies the investment in advanced automation.
Table Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Semi-automatic Milking Machines | 344.14 | 17.65% |
Fully-automatic Milking Machines | 1606.07 | 82.35% |
5 Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size by Application
For Family Ranch, it has been a significant application area for robotic milking machines. In 2024, the revenue of robotic milking machines in Family Ranch is projected to reach approximately 1602.62 million USD. This accounts for a market share of around 82.18% in terms of revenue. The large revenue and high share can be attributed to the fact that family ranches, often run by families, are becoming more inclined towards modern and efficient farming practices.
Robotic milking machines help family ranchers reduce labor intensity, as milking is a time – consuming task that typically takes up a large portion of the annual labor demand. By using these machines, they can free up time for other important tasks on the ranch. For example, with the automated milking process, ranchers can focus more on cow health management and improving milk quality.
On the other hand, the Joint Stock Ranch application also has its own market position. In 2024, the revenue of robotic milking machines in Joint Stock Ranch is expected to be about 347.58 million USD, with a market share of approximately 17.82%. Joint stock ranches, established as joint – stock companies aiming for profits, are also adopting robotic milking machines to enhance production efficiency.
These machines enable them to better manage the milking process, leading to increased milk yields and improved milk quality, which in turn contribute to higher profits. Although the market share of Joint Stock Ranch is lower compared to Family Ranch, its growth potential should not be underestimated. As more joint – stock ranches recognize the benefits of robotic milking machines, the demand and revenue in this segment are likely to increase in the future.
Table Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Family Ranch | 1602.62 | 82.18% |
Joint Stock Ranch | 347.58 | 17.82% |
6 Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size by Region
Europe has been and remains a dominant region in the robotic milking machines market. In 2024, the revenue of the robotic milking machines market in Europe is forecasted to be around 1225.11 million USD. Europe’s long – standing tradition in dairy farming, along with its advanced agricultural technology and high – level of economic development, contribute to its large market size.
Many European countries have a high density of dairy farms, and farmers are more willing to invest in advanced equipment to improve production efficiency. For example, countries like Germany, the UK, and France have a large number of dairy farms that have already adopted robotic milking machines. These machines not only help in reducing labor costs but also in improving milk quality, which is highly valued in the European dairy market.
The United States is also a significant market for robotic milking machines. In 2024, the market revenue in the US is expected to reach about 257.57 million USD. The US has a large – scale dairy industry, and with the continuous development of agriculture, the demand for efficient and automated milking solutions is on the rise. American farmers are increasingly aware of the benefits of robotic milking machines, such as better cow health monitoring and increased milk production. However, compared to Europe, the market share in the US is relatively smaller, which may be due to differences in farming structures and the pace of technology adoption in some regions.
In Asia, China’s robotic milking machines market has been growing steadily. In 2024, the revenue is projected to be approximately 130.16 million USD. China’s dairy industry has been expanding rapidly in recent years, driven by increasing domestic demand for dairy products. The government’s support for modern agriculture and the growing awareness of farmers about advanced farming technologies have led to an increased adoption of robotic milking machines. Although the market size in China is still smaller compared to Europe and the US, its growth rate is relatively high, indicating great potential for future development.
Japan and India are also emerging markets in the robotic milking machines industry. In 2024, Japan’s market revenue is expected to be around 74.65 million USD, and India’s is estimated to be about 53.42 million USD. Japan’s highly developed economy and its focus on precision agriculture have contributed to the growth of the robotic milking machines market. In India, with the increasing modernization of the dairy industry and the government’s efforts to improve milk production efficiency, the demand for robotic milking machines is gradually increasing.
Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East and Africa also have their own market shares in the robotic milking machines market. In 2024, Latin America’s revenue is forecasted to be about 55.73 million USD, Southeast Asia’s around 28.77 million USD, and the Middle East and Africa’s approximately 30.26 million USD. These regions are in the process of developing their dairy industries, and the adoption of robotic milking machines is expected to increase in the future as they seek to improve production efficiency and milk quality.
Figure Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Robotic Milking Machines Market Analysis by Major Players
DeLaval
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
DeLaval is a global leader in dairy and farming machinery, headquartered in Tumba, Sweden. Established in 1883, DeLaval has a long history of innovation and excellence in the dairy industry. As part of the Tetra Laval group, DeLaval focuses on providing sustainable and efficient solutions for dairy farmers worldwide. The company operates manufacturing plants primarily in Europe and has a global sales network, making it a significant player in the robotic milking machines market.
DeLaval’s business is centered on enhancing productivity, animal welfare, and milk quality through advanced technologies. The company’s product portfolio includes a wide range of milking systems, milk cooling equipment, and dairy automation solutions. DeLaval’s strong focus on research and development has enabled it to maintain a competitive edge in the market. Its innovative approach and commitment to quality have earned it a significant market share, with a revenue market share of 33.10% in 2021.
Products:
DeLaval’s flagship product is the VMS™ (Voluntary Milking System), which includes models like the VMS™ V300. This fully-automatic milking system is designed to improve cow comfort, increase milk yield, and reduce labor costs. The VMS™ V300 features faster attachment times, high attachment rates, and a design that accommodates all dairy cow breeds, ensuring optimal comfort.
It also includes advanced data analytics through the DeLaval InControl™ software, which captures vast amounts of data from each milking session, providing farmers with actionable insights. The PureFlow™ technology ensures superior udder health by adjusting vacuum and pulsation for each teat. DeLaval’s product line also includes complementary solutions such as the InSight™ technology for smooth and quiet operation and the InControl™ software for comprehensive farm management.
Lely
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Lely Industries N.V. is a Dutch agricultural machinery manufacturer based in Maassluis, the Netherlands. Founded in 1948 by Cornelis van der Lely and Arij van der Lely, Lely has become a global leader in innovative dairy farming solutions. The company is known for its commitment to sustainability and animal welfare, and its products are sold worldwide.
Lely’s business strategy focuses on providing dairy farmers with advanced technologies that enhance productivity and animal health. The company’s products are designed to reduce labor intensity while increasing milk yield and cow comfort. Lely’s innovative approach has earned it a strong reputation in the dairy industry, and its milking systems have been recognized with awards such as the 2019 European Inventor Award. Lely’s focus on user-friendly design and high reliability ensures that its products meet the needs of modern dairy farms. The company’s revenue market share was 26.80% in 2021.
Products:
Lely’s flagship product is the Astronaut A5, a fully-automatic milking robot. The Astronaut A5 is designed to allow cows to move freely, choosing when to eat, drink, relax, or be milked. This free cow traffic system promotes natural behavior and reduces stress. The robot is highly energy-efficient, with limited electrical movements and innovative hybrid arms that reduce energy consumption. It features an intuitive display that makes it easy for farmers to monitor and manage their herds.
The Astronaut A5 is built with high-quality components and a focus on durability, ensuring long-term reliability and minimal downtime. The system provides detailed data on milk quality, cow health, and milking performance, helping farmers make informed decisions. Lely also offers complementary products such as feed pushers, manure scrapers, and data management software to create a comprehensive dairy farming solution.
GEA Farm
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
GEA Farm is a division of GEA Group, one of the largest technology suppliers for food processing and other industries. Established in 1893, GEA has a global presence with manufacturing plants primarily located in Europe. The company specializes in providing sustainable solutions for dairy farming, including robotic milking systems and related equipment. GEA is known for its comprehensive service portfolio and commitment to innovation.
GEA Farm’s business strategy is centered around offering innovative and sustainable solutions for dairy farmers. The company’s focus on process technology and components has enabled it to develop advanced robotic milking systems that improve efficiency, milk quality, and animal health. GEA’s comprehensive service portfolio ensures that farmers receive ongoing support and maintenance for their equipment. The company’s strong reputation for quality and reliability has earned it a significant market share, with a revenue market share of 16.99% in 2021.
Products:
GEA Farm’s flagship product is the DairyRobot R9500, a fully-automatic milking robot. The DairyRobot R9500 features In-Liner Everything technology, which performs every step of the milking process, from stimulation and teat cleaning to milk harvesting and post-dipping, all within a single attachment. The system provides real-time data on milk quality and cow health through sensors and software, allowing farmers to make immediate decisions.
The DairyRobot R9500 is designed for 24/7 operation with minimal use of consumables and energy, reducing overall costs. The robot’s compact footprint allows for seamless integration into existing barns, whether new or retrofitted. The system includes a large touchscreen display that provides easy access to monitoring and management features. GEA Farm also offers a range of complementary products and services, including milk cooling systems, milk meters, and data analytics software, to create a comprehensive solution for modern dairy farms.