North America Lab Automation Market Size, Share & Forecast (2025-2035)
The North America lab automation market is rapidly evolving with increasing demand for high-throughput screening, efficiency, and precision in laboratory processes across the region. Driven by advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence, and digital solutions, the market is projected to witness significant growth between 2025 and 2035. Adoption of lab automation is particularly strong in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and clinical laboratories, reducing manual error, turnaround time, and facilitating large-scale research. Key players are innovating with automated liquid handlers, analyzers, and integrated software solutions to meet diverse applications such as drug discovery, clinical diagnostics, and genomics. Regulatory compliance, cost efficiency, and rising investments in R&D continue to fuel the momentum while challenges around high initial investments and integration hurdles remain. Overall, North America remains at the forefront of global lab automation adoption.
Latest Market Dynamics
Key Drivers
Rising demand for high-throughput processes and error reduction, especially in pharmaceutical and biotechnology laboratories, is a prime market driver. In 2024, Thermo Fisher Scientific launched advanced robotic sample handling platforms, reinforcing automation’s role in accelerating R&D workflows.
Increasing need for cost-effective and scalable solutions in clinical diagnostics drives widespread lab automation adoption. For example, Danaher’s introduction of integrated automation platforms for clinical labs in early 2024 highlights this trend by allowing simultaneous processing and improved turnaround times.
Key Trends
Integration of AI and IoT with lab automation systems is transforming laboratory management and decision-making. Beckman Coulter, in Q2 2024, partnered with data analytics providers to enable predictive maintenance and process optimization.
Cloud-based laboratory information management systems (LIMS) are gaining popularity for seamless data handling across remote labs. In April 2024, LabWare, Inc. introduced upgrades to its LIMS platform, enhancing interoperability and secure data exchange.
Key Opportunities
Expansion into genomics and proteomics research presents major growth avenues. Agilent Technologies is investing in automated workflows for genomics labs, as announced in June 2024, catering to personalized medicine development.
Growing adoption of automation solutions by small and medium laboratories offers new business prospects. Tecan Group, in July 2024, introduced compact automation modules tailored for SME labs, offering scalable entry points.
Key Challenges
High initial investment and complex integration with legacy lab systems pose significant adoption barriers. PerkinElmer’s recent (May 2024) client collaboration highlights the need for customization to retrofit legacy systems.
Shortage of skilled personnel to manage advanced automation instruments limits market potential. Siemens Healthineers responded by launching enhanced training programs for lab professionals in September 2024.
Key Restraints
Stringent regulatory requirements prolong product validation, impacting market adoption. Roche Holding AG has seen delays in rolling out automation platforms across North America due to extended approval timelines in 2024.
Concerns over data security and privacy in connected lab automation systems inhibit adoption, especially for cloud-based solutions. Bio-Rad Laboratories addressed security issues by reinforcing encryption protocols for their automation products in August 2024.
Automated liquid handlers account for the largest share of the North America lab automation market, driven by their wide application in sample preparation and high-throughput processes. Robotic arms and analyzers are also integral segments, with robust growth prospects supported by rising demand for automated workflows in pharmaceutical and diagnostic labs. Software solutions and automated plate handlers continue to see uptake as labs focus on increasing operational efficiency and data accuracy. The chart below illustrates the market distribution by type, reflecting ongoing technological advancements and shifting end-user priorities.
Drug discovery dominates the application segments in the North America lab automation market, reflecting heightened investments in novel therapeutics and high-throughput screening. Clinical diagnostics follows, benefiting from demand for fast and reliable testing supported by automation. Genomics and proteomics are rapidly growing due to the surge in personalized medicine and advanced research needs, while microbiology and other applications play a supportive but vital role. The following chart captures the percentage distribution of key application segments, highlighting shifts towards research-intensive and clinical use cases.
The North America lab automation market will show accelerated revenue growth between 2020 and 2035, with the base year 2025 estimated at $2,240 million. The market is projected to reach $4,920 million by 2035, driven by technological innovations, expanding R&D investments, and increased applications across diagnostics and research labs. Year-over-year growth rates are expected to remain strong, especially with the rising automation adoption in medium and small laboratories. The chart represents the revenue trajectory, signifying robust market vibrancy.
Year-on-year growth rates for the North America lab automation market remain robust throughout 2020 to 2035, peaking during periods of increased investment and technological adoption post-pandemic. Average YOY growth is anticipated between 6.5% and 7.2%, with occasional surges linked to innovation, regulatory changes, and healthcare digitization initiatives. The chart highlights the positive momentum expected across the forecast timeframe.
The United States commands the largest share of the North America lab automation market, attributed to extensive R&D activities, significant funding, and the presence of major industry players. Canada and Mexico, while smaller in market size, are experiencing steady growth amid increasing automation adoption in life sciences and diagnostics sectors. The regional chart demonstrates the distribution, underscoring the US’s leading position and the emerging opportunities in neighboring markets.
Key market participants hold significant shares, with Thermo Fisher Scientific leading, followed by Danaher Corporation, Beckman Coulter, and Agilent Technologies. The remainder comprises other prominent vendors innovating in automation solutions for diverse laboratory applications. Market leadership is maintained by continuous R&D investments, frequent product launches, and strategic collaborations. The chart visualizes competitive landscape distribution in 2025.
Pharmaceutical & biotechnology companies represent the dominant buyers, followed by clinical diagnostic labs owing to their high demand for automation solutions. Academic and research institutions also contribute significantly, leveraging automation for advanced experiments and data management. Other industry verticals, including environmental and food labs, form a notable share. The pie chart outlines the buyer ecosystem in the region.
Study Coverage
Metrics
Details
Years
2020-2035
Base Year
2025
Market Size
2240
Regions
United States, Canada, Mexico
Segments
Automated Liquid Handlers, Automated Plate Handlers, Robotic Arms, Analyzers, Software, Others, Drug Discovery, Clinical Diagnostics, Genomics Solutions, Proteomics Solutions, Microbiology, Other Applications, Direct Sales, Distributors/Resellers, Online Sales, OEMs, System Integrators, Others, PCR, Microplate Readers, Liquid Handling, Robotics, Software, Others, Small, Medium, Large
July 2024: Thermo Fisher Scientific introduced the AutoSample Pro, a next-generation liquid handler for genomics and drug discovery labs in North America.
June 2024: Beckman Coulter announced its strategic partnership with a top AI analytics provider to enhance predictive maintenance features in automation systems.
August 2024: Bio-Rad Laboratories launched a new data encryption technology, bolstering cybersecurity measures for lab automation.
September 2024: Siemens Healthineers expanded its workforce upskilling initiatives by launching specialized training programs for advanced lab automation systems.
May 2024: PerkinElmer completed integration of automation solutions in a leading US pharmaceutical client’s legacy laboratory, focusing on reducing downtime and manual intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Ankita R
Lead Industry Analyst
Ankita R is a Lead Industry Analyst specializing in market research, industry analysis, and business consulting across Healthcare. Ankita R brings a commercially grounded perspective to sectors shaped by changing demand, innovation, and competitive dynamics, helping turn complex market trends into clear strategic insights for business decision-makers. With 10+ years of experience across research, analytics, and strategic advisory roles, Ankita R has helped organizations translate data into actionable growth strategies.
