Automation for All: How Mobile Robotics Are Powering Growth for Small and Midsized Companies
- John Stikes
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
This week at Automate 2025 in Detroit, the spotlight was on a revolution that’s quietly reshaping industrial floors and warehouse aisles—not with grand, billion-dollar systems, but with affordable, flexible, and easy-to-deploy mobile robots.
From Quasi Robotics to Piaggio Fast Forward and RealMan Intelligent Technology, a new class of autonomous systems is emerging—built not just for global conglomerates, but for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) that want automation without complexity or long-term integration hurdles.
A Shift Toward Simplicity and Speed
For years, robotics has seemed just out of reach for SMBs. High upfront costs, lengthy deployment timelines, and the need for specialized IT support created significant barriers. But the latest wave of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) is changing that narrative.
The new generation of mobile robotic carts seen at Automate 2025 shares a common mission: fast, frictionless integration into existing operations.
🔹 Quasi Robotics: Plug-and-Play Material Handling
Quasi Robotics’ Model C2 Autonomous Cart, presented at Booth #5051, is a prime example. It features a stereo vision system, built-in navigation software, and rapid charging—all packed into a compact unit. What sets it apart is how easily it can be rolled into an existing operation without major changes to layout or workflow.
“We’re focused on helping manufacturers and warehouses deploy robotics with minimal learning curve,” said a Quasi rep at the show.
It’s ideal for facilities that don’t have robotics engineers on staff but still want to benefit from automation. For many SMBs, that’s a game changer.
Robots That Work Side-by-Side With Humans
🔹 Piaggio Fast Forward: Intuitive and Collaborative
Better known for its Vespa scooters, Piaggio Group’s robotics spin-off, Piaggio Fast Forward, is building robots that follow people, rather than replace them.
Their new robot Kilo™, showcased at Booth #5636, uses Piaggio’s proprietary sensor-fusion follow technology and can also navigate autonomously on pre-mapped routes. It’s pedestrian-speed, human-friendly, and doesn’t require extensive programming.
For SMBs with dynamic environments—like retail logistics, urban last-mile delivery, or mixed-use warehouses—Kilo™ represents a leap forward in human-robot collaboration. And because it operates much like a “smart cart,” it can often be deployed in hours, not weeks.
Flexible Automation That Scales With Growth
🔹 RealMan Robotics: Lightweight, Agile Arms
RealMan Intelligent Technology, at Booth #1852, introduced ultra-light humanoid robotic arms suited for manufacturing lines, service industries, and mobile platforms. These arms combine high-precision movement with a modular design, enabling incremental automation—perfect for small manufacturers scaling step-by-step.
RealMan’s approach emphasizes affordable innovation, offering cost-effective options for pick-and-place, assembly, and inspection tasks.
The Real Win: Measurable ROI for SMBs
For small and midsized companies, every dollar spent on technology must justify itself quickly. The stars of Automate 2025 offer just that:
Lower cost of ownership
Minimal setup time
Fewer IT dependencies
Improved productivity and staff augmentation, not replacement
These attributes allow businesses to start small, prove value fast, and scale automation at their own pace.
Final Thoughts: Democratizing Robotics
The real message from Automate 2025? Mobile robotics are no longer just for the Fortune 500. Thanks to companies like Quasi, Piaggio Fast Forward, and RealMan, the tools of automation are becoming as accessible as any off-the-shelf solution.
For any business owner wondering whether automation is worth the investment—the answer is now a resounding yes. Not in five years. Not next quarter. Now.
