As supply chains grow increasingly complex and customer expectations demand faster, more accurate deliveries, businesses are turning to flexible automation models like Robots as a Service (RaaS) to stay ahead.
From e-commerce and retail to manufacturing and logistics, RaaS is redefining how companies deploy and manage robotic solutions across their operations.
According to ABI Research, over 1.3 million RaaS deployments are expected globally by 2026—a clear sign that this pay-as-you-go automation model is gaining traction worldwide. Instead of committing to a high upfront capital investment, businesses can subscribe to robotic solutions and scale usage based on demand.
What is Robots as a Service (RaaS)?
RaaS is a business model that allows companies to lease robotic systems rather than purchase them outright. This means automation becomes an operational expense rather than a capital one, making advanced technology accessible to businesses of all sizes. The flexibility to scale up during peak seasons and reduce usage during downtimes makes it especially attractive for industries with fluctuating order volumes.
For small and medium-sized enterprises, RaaS lowers the barrier to entry, providing access to cutting-edge automation without financial strain. It also allows businesses to experiment with robotics without making long-term commitments—giving them the opportunity to innovate without the associated risk.
Mobile robots: The backbone of RaaS
Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are at the heart of the RaaS revolution. Designed to navigate warehouse environments, transport materials, and perform picking or sorting tasks, these robots deliver high efficiency with minimal disruption to existing workflows. They’re ideal for on-demand scaling in dynamic sectors such as e-commerce and retail.
Addverb, a global robotics and automation company, is one of the key players enabling this shift. Its RaaS offering is already being adopted by forward-thinking companies such as Mondial Relay, a leading parcel delivery provider. The company implemented Addverb’s robotic sortation solution to handle higher volumes with improved speed and accuracy –without the capital burden.
Watch the solution – Mondial Relay, High Speed sortation system
Why RaaS works: Key benefits
- Cost efficiency: RaaS turns hefty capital investment into a manageable operational expense, helping businesses free up cash and allocate resources more strategically.
- Scalability: Easily adjust your robotic fleet to match fluctuating demand—no long-term commitments required.
- Ongoing tech updates: Stay up to date with the latest robotics technology without needing to reinvest in new systems.
- Minimal downtime: Maintenance and support are handled by the provider, reducing operational disruptions.
The road ahead
As warehouse automation becomes essential for maintaining competitiveness, RaaS offers a flexible and future-ready approach. Businesses no longer need to choose between innovation and investment—they can have both.
With Addverb’s growing portfolio of mobile robots and end-to-end integration capabilities, RaaS is empowering companies to transform operations at their own pace, driving efficiency while maintaining agility.