IND Report LEK Discrete Automation Header

Report - April 20, 2026

Automation is increasingly critical across modern discrete (factory) processes, enabling greater quality, higher throughput, and lower production costs. In fact, the $150B global discrete (factory) automation market is expected to expand at a 6% CAGR to reach $200B by 2030.1

“Automation is evolving into a strategic necessity that addresses skilled labor shortages, supply chain fragility, and the economics of reshoring while unlocking better productivity and sustainability,” says Mark Brune, a managing director in our Industrials Group.

This report from our Industrials Group examines how physical AI, intelligent robotics, digital twins, and software-driven platforms are reshaping discrete manufacturing and creating new investment opportunities.

Access the full report below, which further explores:

  • Today’s technology shift driving discrete (factory) automation growth

  • Key strategic drivers from labor scarcity and supply chain resilience to demand for remote monitoring, analytics, and lifecycle monetization

  • The current M&A landscape and trends to monitor

To discuss this market’s M&A potential, please contact our senior professionals.

  1. L.E.K. research and analysis; HW Intelligence

Select Activity

Related Insights

Harris Williams is a global investment bank specializing in M&A and private capital advisory services. Clients worldwide rely on us to help unlock value in their business and turn ambitious goals into reality. We approach every engagement with boundless collaboration, pooling expertise and relationships across industries and geographies. For over 30 years, our clients have trusted us to think strategically, execute precisely, and deliver superior outcomes to help them grow.


Harris Williams LLC is a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. Harris Williams & Co. Ltd is a private limited company incorporated under English law with its registered office at 13th floor, One Angel Court, London EC2R 7HJ, UK, registered with the Registrar of Companies for England and Wales (registration number 07078852). Harris Williams & Co. Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, number 5408952. Harris Williams Private Capital Advisory Ltd. is an Appointed Representative of Sturgeon Ventures, LLP, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority number 452811. Harris Williams & Co. Corporate Finance Advisors GmbH is registered in the commercial register of the local court of Frankfurt am Main, Germany, under HRB 107540. The registered address is 16th Floor, Marienturm, Taunusanlage 9-10 60329, Frankfurt am Main, Germany (email address: hwgermany@harriswilliams.com). Geschäftsführer/Director: Paul Poggi, VAT No. DE321666994. Harris Williams is a trade name under which Harris Williams LLC, Harris Williams & Co. Ltd and Harris Williams & Co. Corporate Finance Advisors GmbH conduct business.