Global Service Robot Demand Soars — What It Means for Businesses in Singapore and Malaysia
According to the International Federation of Robotics (IFR), the global service robot market continues to expand rapidly. Nearly 200,000 professional service robots were sold worldwide in 2024 — a 9% increase from the previous year. This growth is largely driven by labour shortages, rising wages, and the need for operational efficiency across multiple sectors.
While the report highlights worldwide adoption, similar trends are happening right here in Singapore and Malaysia. More businesses across hospitality, logistics, cleaning, and even healthcare are investing in service robots to enhance productivity and customer satisfaction.
Transport and Logistics Robots Lead Global Adoption
The IFR’s report reveals that transportation and logistics robots represent the largest share of professional service robots, with over 102,000 units sold in 2024 — a 14% increase. These include autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) used for moving goods safely and efficiently within warehouses, factories, and commercial buildings.
In Singapore and Malaysia, companies are now exploring similar automation solutions. AMR delivery robots are increasingly deployed for internal logistics, helping reduce manual transport tasks and support staff shortages. Such robots improve turnaround times and operational flow — whether delivering items between offices, hotels, or manufacturing areas.
At 365Robot, our range of industrial delivery robots and AMRs are designed to adapt to diverse indoor environments, supporting both industrial and commercial logistics needs.
Hospitality Robots Enhance Service Quality
Globally, hospitality robots ranked second in sales with more than 42,000 units sold. These include robots used for food delivery, guest reception, and information assistance.
Across Southeast Asia, hotels and restaurants are embracing robot waiters, hotel delivery robots, and receptionist robots to enhance service efficiency while tackling manpower challenges. These robots provide consistent, reliable service and free up staff to focus on personal interaction and guest care.
Businesses in Singapore and Malaysia are seeing strong returns on investment by deploying robot waiters and hotel delivery robots to improve workflow, reduce waiting times, and create a modern service experience that customers remember.
Cleaning Robots Continue to Gain Popularity
The IFR report also highlights a 34% growth in cleaning robots worldwide — showing strong global demand for automated hygiene solutions.
Locally, cleaning robots are becoming common in malls, airports, hospitals, and educational institutions across Singapore and Malaysia. The combination of hygiene awareness and manpower shortage makes automation a practical choice.
Modern cleaning robots are capable of autonomous navigation, smart route planning, and large-area cleaning with high efficiency.
At 365Robot, our cleaning robot models are built for both small-scale venues and large commercial spaces, ensuring consistent performance and reduced labour costs.
Opportunities in Medical and Healthcare Sectors
Another fast-growing category is medical robots, which recorded a remarkable 91% increase in global sales. These include robots used for surgery, diagnostics, and rehabilitation — reflecting a growing demand for automation in healthcare as populations age.
Although still emerging in Singapore and Malaysia, the healthcare robotics market shows strong potential, especially in elderly care, medical delivery, and healthcare education promotion.
Robots such as the receptionist robot and delivery robot from 365Robot can play valuable roles in hospitals, clinics, and medical institutions — assisting with visitor guidance, healthcare education (for example, displaying pre- and post-operation care videos or wound-care reminders), and medicine delivery.
Conclusion: The Future of Service Robots in Southeast Asia
The IFR’s findings underline a clear trend — automation is becoming essential, not optional. For businesses in Singapore and Malaysia, investing in service robots is no longer about novelty; it’s about staying efficient, competitive, and ready for the future.
At 365Robot, we provide a complete range of service robots including robot waiters, robot promoters, hotel delivery robots, AMRs, and cleaning robots — helping local industries embrace the next wave of automation.