New robotic technologies are being deployed in the Kotzur factories to help the industry remain sustainable.
Market conditions in 2026 have proven to be volatile, with events around the globe putting pressure on manufacturers.
Kotzur national sales manager Bevan Austin said the challenge is not simply to produce more, but to do so in a way that is sustainable for customers, employees and the business itself.
“At Kotzur, recent investment in robotic fabrication technology reflects a deliberate strategy of continual improvement and long term capability building,” he said.
The business has recently installed both a new and a second hand robot at its Toowoomba manufacturing facility, complementing existing robotic systems already operating at Walla Walla.
The introduction of additional robots is about improving the quality of work for employees while creating a more responsive and resilient manufacturing operation.
One of the most tangible benefits has been the removal of highly repetitive fabrication tasks from the workshop floor. These tasks, while essential, can place physical strain on workers and limit opportunities for engagement and skill development over time. By allocating repetitive processes to robotic systems, skilled tradespeople can focus on more interesting, complex and value adding work.
Austin said this shift supports safer workplaces and more rewarding roles, while reinforcing the importance of human expertise in modern manufacturing.
“Automation does not replace people; it enables them to apply their skills where they deliver the greatest impact,” he said.
From a customer perspective, the additional robotic capability strengthens Kotzur’s ability to scale production in line with market demand.
The investment also supports customer outcomes by improving delivery performance.
“By increasing our automated capacity, we’ve been able to bring our lead times back in and respond more effectively to customer demand,” Austin said. “That flexibility allows us to scale production when the market requires it and, most importantly, meet our customers’ expectations around delivery timeframes.”
This ability to scale is increasingly important across the bulk handling sector, where delays can have significant downstream impacts on operations. Greater production resilience gives customers confidence that projects will be delivered when promised.
The investment also reflects Kotzur’s approach to reinvesting profits back into the business. Rather than viewing automation as a one off upgrade, the company sees it as part of an ongoing commitment to strengthening infrastructure, improving processes and future proofing operations. The decision to integrate both new and second hand robotic technology demonstrates a practical, value driven mindset focused on outcomes rather than optics.
Importantly, these investments are being made within regional manufacturing centres. Expanding robotic capability in Toowoomba reinforces Kotzur’s commitment to regional Australia, supporting skilled jobs while ensuring advanced manufacturing remains competitive outside metropolitan areas.
“Across the business, the combination of technology, skilled people and a continuous improvement mindset is creating a stronger foundation for long term success. Knowledge and learnings from multiple sites can be shared, processes refined and capability lifted across the organisation,” Austin said.
“Automation, when implemented with purpose, can improve efficiency while enhancing job quality, strengthening customer outcomes and supporting sustainable growth.
“As market expectations continue to rise, manufacturers that invest thoughtfully will be best placed to lead. Kotzur’s latest step in automation is not just about doing more; it is about doing better, for customers, employees and the industry alike.”
