# Starting Small: How to Scale an Operation with Robotics

By Hy Tek Intralogistics · Published 2025-01-26 · Updated 2026-06-22 · Software & Technology on MarketScale
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Creator hub: Hai Robotics

> As supply chain disruptions and rising labor costs challenge the logistics sector, automation is increasingly viewed as a solution to stay competitive. Robotics, in particular, offers opportunities to enhance efficiency, but many companies hesitate due to concerns about upfront costs and scalability. According to the International Federation of Robotics, global robot installations were expected…

## Key points

- Companies can start small with robotics to manage costs.
- Modular systems benefit both existing and new facilities.
- Scalable investments reduce financial risk over time.

Block Field

As supply chain disruptions and rising labor costs challenge the logistics sector, automation is increasingly viewed as a solution to stay competitive. Robotics, in particular, offers opportunities to enhance efficiency, but many companies hesitate due to concerns about upfront costs and scalability. According to the [International Federation of Robotics](https://ifr.org/ifr-press-releases/news/record-of-4-million-robots-working-in-factories-worldwide#:~:text=By%202024%2C%20the%20global%20economic,level%20off%20at%20541%2C000%20units.), global robot installations were expected to exceed 540,000 units in 2024 — signaling a [growing shift toward automation](https://marketscale.com/industries/hy-tek-intralogistics/hy-tek-intralogistics-2025-trends/). For companies looking to keep pace, the question arises: **How can businesses start small with robotics and scale effectively without overcommitting resources upfront?**

Welcome to [*Automation Insider*](https://marketscale.com/shows/hy-tek/) by Hy-Tek Intralogistics. In this episode, host [Joe McGrath](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-mcgrath-32a34844/) dives deep into the topic of scalable robotics with [Matt Kelly](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dynamicgrowth/), Director of Business Development at [Hai Robotics](https://www.hairobotics.com/). Together, they explore strategies for businesses to adopt flexible robotic systems that can grow with their operations.

#### Key takeaways from the discussion:

- **Starting Small for Big Impact**: Robotics isn’t just for large-scale facilities anymore. Flexible systems allow startups and smaller distribution centers to automate affordably, helping them compete against giants like Amazon.
- **Tailored Solutions for Brownfield vs. Greenfield Sites**: Automation strategies differ significantly between retrofitting existing facilities and building new ones, with modular systems offering unique advantages for both.
- **Lowering Risk with Incremental Investments**: Robotics now enables companies to invest in small, scalable increments, mitigating financial risks and simplifying future expansions.

Matt Kelly is an accomplished business leader specializing in robotics, automation, and fulfillment solutions. Currently the Director of Business Development at Hai Robotics, he leverages over a decade of experience to help companies optimize warehouse efficiency with high-density, scalable robotic systems. Previously, he held key roles at AutoStore and inVia Robotics, where he drove strategic growth through innovative automation technologies, cementing his expertise in advanced supply chain solutions.

*Article written by MarketScale.*

Tags: Automation Insider, global robot installations, Hai Robotics, Hy-Tek Intralogistics, International Federation of Robotics, Joe McGrath, Matt Kelly

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