University of Hull launches programme to accelerate robotics adoption across UK ports

The initiative is part of UKRI’s Robotics Adoption Programme, which supports organisations to trial and introduce robotics to improve productivity, safety and growth.

Backed by Innovate UK, the University of Hull’s Port and Logistics Robotics Adoption Programme (PORTaL) is being developed in collaboration with port owners, operators and industry partners to address skills and capability gaps that are limiting the deployment of robotics across the sector.

The programme will provide industry-focused training to help professionals working in ports, terminals, warehouses and logistics environments assess, pilot and implement robotics solutions with confidence.

Professor Dhaval Thakker, Professor of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), said: “UK ports handle around 95% of the country’s imports and exports by volume, making them a vital part of the national economy. Yet freight volumes fell to 429.7 million tonnes in 2024, the lowest recorded in more than 25 years.

“The benefits of robotics are already being demonstrated in UK ports. At Associated British Ports, drone-based inspections have reduced inspection times by up to 55%, while improving safety and cost-effectiveness.

“PORTaL will provide practical, independent guidance and training to help businesses identify opportunities, reduce risk and build the capability needed to adopt robotics effectively.”

The project is being delivered with support from partners and stakeholders including the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK), Humber Freeport and the University of Hull Logistics Advisory Board.