It’s clear from today’s robotics headlines that this form of automation is not just here to stay — it’s only going to continue its rapid growth trajectory.
The barrier to entry for companies considering automated solutions is lower than ever before. Industrial robots are becoming both cheaper and easier to implement – and they can now handle a wide range of tasks, such as palletizing, packaging, transportation and more.
As a result, automation is expanding beyond classic industries like automotive manufacturing. Retailers, manufacturers, distributors, food service providers and countless other companies across multiple industries are looking to robotics solutions to reduce costs, mitigate labor challenges, streamline production and ultimately achieve better bottom-line results.
With all of this activity and demand for robotics, there has never been a better time for organizations looking for automation solutions to start exploring their options.
The First Step is Understanding What Robotics Solution You Actually Need
Before investing in a robotics solution, companies must first understand their needs. Many organizations looking to implement robots in their facilities often don’t know where to start. This is understandable, as the robot needed for packing products in warehouse environments will differ from those dealing with dispensing or measuring chemicals or those performing labor-related tasks in the construction industry.
Introducing HowToRobot — the World’s First Digital Robot Hub
To help companies identify the right solutions for their needs, River Capital Finance has partnered with HowToRobot, a digital marketplace in which companies looking for robotics can find the right solution for them from a global network of more than 15,000 suppliers. Visitors can request solution proposals from a range of suppliers free of charge, understand what that solution is likely to cost and discuss their needs with providers. Check out how it works in this short video:
HowToRobot is a great first step for companies versus dealing with a single provider upfront. Often, salespeople and integrators are focused on selling what they have to offer — but that might not be the best option for the customer. Other equipment, systems and designs may be available that better fit the customer’s goals, facility and budget.
Visit HowToRobot now to learn more about their offerings and how the process works.
The Right Solution Matched with the Right Financing
As partners with HowToRobot, River Capital Finance provides the financing companies need to implement their selected robotics solution quickly and efficiently. We offer a variety of program options — ranging from purchases and leases to flexible loans — to reduce the financial impact of investing in robotics. These include:
- Capital Leases — Essentially a loan with a 3-4-year term. You’ll own the equipment after the term concludes and the loan has been paid off. A key advantage of our capital leases is that your robotics solution itself serves as the collateral — not your facilities, receivables or any other assets.
- Fair Market Value Lease — A flexible lease that allows you to use OPEX resources vs. CAPEX. At the end of the term (typically around three years), you can return the equipment, renew the lease, purchase the equipment at fair market value or extend the lease for a shorter period until you make a decision on your next step.
- As-a-Service — While primarily designed for hardware and equipment vendors, our As-a-Service solution allows you as an end-user to benefit from an even more flexible solution in which you only pay for what you use. Software and maintenance are included along with the robotics solution you select, ensuring complete uptime and support as you put your equipment to use. And, because it’s a three-year term, your solution will never be more than a few years old. When the time comes to renew, new equipment can be cycled in to keep you fully operational.