This year’s winners were selected across six categories:

• Quantum Controls – UK&I Collaboration Award
• Laplace Solutions – UK&I EcoStruxure Excellence Award
• Caledonia Technologies – UK&I Modernisation and Migration Award
• NeoDyne – UK&I Training Excellence Award
• Bilfinger UK – UK&I EAE Partner of the Year Award
• CSL – UK&I Alliance Amplifier Award
• Stephen Maltby, Technical Director of Platinum Electrical Engineering – UK&I Brand Ambassador

The awards took place during Schneider Electric’s annual UK and Ireland Alliance SI Partner Forum, an event designed to bring together the company’s network of dedicated partners that help deliver value to end users and customers.

John Armstrong, UK Sales Director for CPG, MMM Segments and SI Alliance Partners at Schneider Electric said: “The annual awards are an opportunity to highlight the strength in partnerships between Schneider Electric and our partners. Our Alliance SI Partner Program is designed to empower system integrators to deliver smarter, more sustainable industrial automation solutions so it is great to be able to take a step back and recognise how closer collaboration delivers value in the real world.”

Jocelyn Golding, UK and Ireland OEM and Industrial SI Channel Marketing Manager at Schneider Electric commented: “I congratulate all the winners from the recent UK&I Alliance SI Partner Awards. When a connected ecosystem of experts comes together, the possibilities for innovation and sustainability are significant and have a lasting impact on the end customer.”

The forum also showcased insights from Schneider Electric leaders, technical workshops and opportunities to connect with partners during the day. Schnieder Electric continues to champion partnership through the Alliance SI Partner ecosystem. By strengthening existing partnerships, elevating expertise, and advancing solutions, Alliance Partners can build the future of industrial automation though collaboration and innovation in the community.

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Grant Mullen, Managing Director at Ai Automation, commented: “Holding Alliance SI Partner status with Schneider Electric will help us reach new customers. Furthermore, by working through the certification process, we’ve gained insight to train our workforce, grow the business and help customers meet their goals for Industry 4.0 and beyond.”

Based in Manchester, Ai Automation provides bespoke solutions that integrate vision systems with cobots, industrial robots and delta robot systems. The firm also uses Schneider Electric PLCs. Its systems boost efficiency and safety in a wide range of applications, including end of line packaging in the pharmaceutical and food and beverage sectors. It also provides strategic advice on the selection and upgrade of automated systems.

In 2024, the company secured funding under the Department for Transport’s Grant for the Freight Innovation Fund and was awarded funding under Innovate UK’s Smart Grant initiative in 2022. Along with the new Schneider Electric Alliance SI Partner status, these awards demonstrate the SME’s innovative approach.

Samira El Kassimi, Robotic and Automation Business Development Manager at Schneider Electric, said: “Certifying an SME as our first Robotics Partner in the UK and Ireland is an important milestone and shows that we’re dedicated to supporting young, innovative companies that are developing solutions to future proof industry.”

A recent report from MakeUK found that 59% of businesses are planning to increase adoption of robotic and autonomous systems over the next three years. By working in partnership with specialist robotic integrators, Schneider Electric is fostering greater use of robotics in the UK and Ireland, as well as support for Schneider Electric automation technologies such as Modicon PLCs.

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Logistics operations make a big contribution to industrial facilities’ efficiency, yet it can quickly fall down the priority lists for plant managers who may view logistics as outside of their specialised area. In fact, any industrial facility that is looking to achieve end-to-end connectivity must consider logistics as a vital piece of that puzzle.

As plant managers look to converge the worlds of IT and OT and realise the full potential of digital transformation, bringing logistics into that equation will create a single digital thread that runs through all operations. This will smooth operations and deliver sustainability benefits that will contribute to the collective decarbonisation of industry.

Just as in production environments, logistics applications are often based on multiple disparate systems with new and legacy assets. Engineers can pull together multiple hardware and software into a single interface using the latest generation of open automation platform such as EcoStruxure Automation Expert (EAE). This makes it straightforward to address efficiency gaps effectively.  The approach can also find untapped opportunities for savings in product handling and transportation.

End-to-end transformation

Including logistics in a plant’s end-to-end process will not only support the goals of the wider facility but can also simplify the supply chain. Looking at manufacturing as an example, an end-to-end solution with logistics considered will cover real-time data monitoring, next-generation robots and cobots. But most importantly it will provide a single digital thread that provides visibility from the production environment, throughout logistics operations, and all the way to the final consumer location which could include the retailer.

But what does that actually look like in practice, and how does it differ from current ‘end-to-end’ options? Firstly, seamless integration is possible today using an open automation platform. This provides an interface that integrates the varied and disparate systems regularly seen in both industry and logistics, providing real-time data between the two environments. It can dynamically align inventory levels with production, anticipating customer demand and adjusting accordingly. The reason this is so crucial for efficient logistics is that the flow of data goes both ways, ensuring each business in the complex supply chain is effectively using every raw material and energy resource for minimised waste.

Secondly, the effective use of robotics solutions will streamline complex challenges in handling materials and workpieces. Carrier systems are one example. In the past, manufacturers used dedicated carriers for different products and tasks. However, the latest modular multi-carrier systems are multipurpose and can convey, separate, group or position multiple types of product. This makes machines smaller and easier to integrate into production lines. For instance, Schneider Electric’s Lexium MC12 Multi Carrier enables operators to continually maximise resources use.

Digitalised sustainability

Logistics operations hold immense opportunity to make an impact in sustainability. Plant managers can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices in the same way they would approach manufacturing operations. Large scale warehouse operations and distribution networks consume substantial amounts of energy but reducing that energy doesn’t have to add more complex tasks for plant managers.

By unlocking the flow of data from the production environment through to logistics, plant managers will be able to see energy consumption clearly, even extending to transportation operations. Plant managers with a holistic view (true end-to-end) of operations will also be able to record and report energy data in compliance with stricter green regulations in the drive towards Net Zero 2050. This data can also prove to customers that their products are created with environmental protection in mind.

Plant managers can also use data to improve circularity by identifying where materials can be repurposed, and waste can be reduced. For example, even used packaging materials can be brought back into the supply chain for recycling. While individually the recycling of a piece of packaging is unlikely to move the sustainability needle, when these activities are applied across every logistics operation for every plant in the country, it represents a significant step in lowering the overall environmental impact of industry.

Logistics for all

Operators who are not logistics professionals can benefit from bringing this crucial business operation into their end-to-end digital strategy. Plant managers can use real-time information to create a clear picture of resource use and inventory flow. This can integrate directly with information from production for more accurate decision-making. Utilising digital monitoring and control technologies such as TeSys island enhance flexibility by integrating motor controls with this system data, enabling faster responses to unexpected changes. By extending digital transformation to logistics, a plant manager will reduce downtime and improve productivity – and viewing all operations as one system is an important step in creating a resilient and future-ready facility.

It’s time to rethink logistics, not as a supporting function of production environments but a key component for a business’ overall digital strategy. By making sense of logistics, plant managers will build an agile business ready to meet challenges now and in the future.

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Joining the dots throughout these disparate systems requires a revolutionary approach to automation that will drive innovation in logistics and deliver value and support UK businesses as they scale and compete on the global stage.

Adopting an open platform based on the IEC 61499 standard for Universal Automation establishes a single digital thread that bridges the gap between legacy assets and cutting-edge robotics. It also serves to build a foundation for futureproofing, enabling logistics teams to remain agile to market demand while improving in sustainability throughout the supply chain.

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Making logistics sense

Warehouse and logistics operations are being tasked with handling higher demand, even in the wake of a growing skills and labour shortage, coupled with the pressure of reducing energy consumption across the board. While these may seem like significant challenges to overcome, there is an opportunity for logistics professionals to seize a competitive advantage, regardless of how complex their material handling application.

Open automation redefines logistics for end users looking to optimise operations as well as the OEMs and system integrators that serve the industry. The key to open automation is putting a software platform such as EcoStruxure Automation Expert (EAE) from Schneider Electric in place. This means that plug and produce software will be independent from the hardware it runs on, empowering everyone to deploy best-in-class technology whether upgrading an existing facility or building a greenfield logistics centre.

It also provides access to operational data. All of logistics can explore the capabilities and elements of digitalisation most beneficial to them without any integration roadblocks.

Logistics operators that have successfully opened the flow of data in a facility will find sustainability-improving activities without any changes to the existing infrastructure:

• Real-time monitoring and control of all logistics assets (including surrounding elements like HVAC and lighting) will highlight any unnecessary consumption that can be rectified to minimise energy usage without sacrificing performance.
• Depending on the logistics application, unexpected downtime of machines will often lead to wasted energy or materials. Addressing maintenance concerns before they lead to downtime not only minimises this waste, but it also extends the lifecycle of assets. This previously would not have been possible for legacy assets that didn’t have the correct digital capabilities at point of installation but with (EAE) this barrier is removed with legacy assets brought up to modern standards.
• Again, depending on the logistics application, an open automation platform will help logistics communicate directly with the production facility so that data-driven insights can better anticipate demand, and automatically adjust inventory level requests to reduce waste from unused products. Optimising inventory management helps logistics operations contribute to a more sustainable supply chain.

Robotics for resilience

With automation integration challenges solved, logistics managers are free to explore next-generation robotics that will help to mitigate the impact of the skills gap and improve overall efficiency. New robotic solutions can physically integrate with existing systems and the workforce.

Logistics has always required a different level of agility than applications with set specific runs, so a modular design means logistics can apply the right robotics at the right time. Modularity can also optimise the use of space, which remains a challenge for the sector with warehouse space at an all-time high following the rise of e-commerce in the wake of the pandemic. One example is Schneider Electric’s Lexium MC12 smart multi-carrier system, which allows goods to be transported with precision while enabling different configurations on the same line.

Whether a logistics team is looking to optimise their main hub or fulfil demand for faster delivery by adding warehouse space close to the consumer, open automation and robotics are tools to help them handle any variety of products with the required precision.

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Representing a scalable digital twin software suite for the entire machine lifecycle, EcoStruxure Machine Expert Twin enables parallel engineering of mechanical, electrical and controls workflows for truly agile development processes.

Alexandru Al Shehari, Robotics and Motion Control Offer Manager UK&I at Schneider Electric said: “We’re seeing growing demand for faster, more agile machine development – and that’s exactly what our digital twin and robotics solutions deliver. In a world where every decision must be backed by data, digital twins allow us to reduce commissioning time by up to 60% and accelerate time-to-market by up to 50% – delivering measurable impact for businesses under pressure to innovate faster and more sustainably.”

Next generation robotics and cobots, by design, are more energy-efficient than their predecessors, sometimes consuming less power compared to traditional manufacturing methods depending on the process. The presentation highlighted how, when combined with Schneider’s EcoStruxure Machine Expert Twin digital twin technology, robots can be designed and tested virtually before installation, helping to cut down on investment and operating expenditure. Energy and cost saving capabilities make robotic solutions attractive to the whole industrial supply chain.

Quentin Wylie, Robotics and Automation Consultant at Schneider Electric said: “By creating a continuous feedback loop between the physical and digital worlds, we can model, monitor, and optimise systems in real time. This enables more intelligent decision-making, greater resource efficiency, and futureproofed operations.

Talking about the development of these technologies is essential for both knowledge sharing and the advancement of industry toward reaching net zero by 2050. All stakeholders must be engaged in the journey and be able to access the right solutions.”

As digital transformation accelerates, so does the need for secure-by-design automation. Not only is it essential to protect data but preventing the potential downtime that cyberattacks cause can save millions in operational costs. Schneider Electric’s products and solutions are developed through a Global Secure Development Lifecycle (SDL) and are certified to ISA/IEC 62443-4-1 and 62443-4-2 cyber security standards.

Schneider Electric’s approach to digitalisation aligns with its global commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. By embedding digital twins and robotics into automation strategies, companies are no longer reacting to sustainability goals - they’re placing at the centre of operations. Through innovations in robotics, motion, and virtual engineering, Schneider Electric is helping industry reduce waste, optimise energy use, and bring smarter, more resilient machines to market faster. Download the Schneider Electric robotics Eguide here.

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Monitoring and reporting on the 11 global commitments of its SSI’s quarterly progress is fundamental to achieving the company’s goals tied to all dimensions of environmental, social, and governance (ESG).

“In 2024, Schneider Electric was recognised by TIME and Statista as the World’s Most Sustainable Company. Earlier this year, we were honoured to receive the same recognition from Corporate Knights as part of its Global 100 ranking – marking our second time topping this list and a first for any corporation. These remarkable achievements, alongside other key ESG recognitions inspire us to reach even greater heights in 2025,” said Chris Leong, Chief Sustainability Officer at Schneider Electric.

“As we enter the final year of our Sustainability Impact programme, we are determined to continue transforming ambition into action. There’s still work ahead, but with the support of our extensive ecosystem, our people, and all our Impact Makers, we will succeed.”

Schneider Electric continues to make consistent strides each quarter towards its goals of reducing the carbon footprint of its customers. Since 2018, its energy-saving products, software, and services have enabled customers to save and avoid 679 million tonnes of CO2. The 1,000 top suppliers engaged in Schneider’s Zero Carbon Project have made notable progress in adopting energy efficiency initiatives and shifting to renewable energy, leading to an overall reduction in supplier emissions of 40% by the end of 2024.

Schneider’s suppliers are also committed to upholding decent work standards, ensuring fair wages, safe work environments, and improved labour conditions. Within just one year, the percentage of suppliers meeting Schneider’s rigorous standards has surged from 21% at the end of 2023 to 63% by the end of 2024.

This commitment to ethical practices goes hand in hand with Schneider’s broader mission to make a positive impact globally. A year ahead of schedule, over 53.4 million people have now access to clean and reliable electricity exceeding the SSI ambition of 50 million. Schneider’s rural electrification projects, including solar microgrids in Africa, transform lives by enhancing the quality of life of local communities and supporting local economies. At the end of 2024, Schneider had also trained over 824,000 people in energy management, moving closer to its goal of one million by the end of 2025. Through its Youth Education and Entrepreneurship programme, Schneider equips young people with essential skills in energy efficiency, preparing them for careers in sustainable industries.

In addition to these accomplishments, for the 14th consecutive year, Schneider Electric has been included in the DJSI World Index, achieved a place on CDP’s A list, and earned a AAA rating from MSCI ESG. Schneider’s latest score from EcoVadis also secured a Platinum medal.

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Maintenance related issues like unplanned downtime, product losses and energy inefficiency cost major industrial companies at least $864 billion annually, or $532,000 each hour. Simultaneously, 63% of maintenance efforts are unnecessary and could be avoided.

With the typical asset lifespan in heavy industries being 30 to 40 years, and an increasing focus on ESG, there is an increasing pressure to improve asset management strategies. These play a foundational role in companies to embrace digitalizing asset management and improving Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) and reducing Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).

Leveraging MaxGrip’s Asset Improvement Program (AIP), Schneider Electric will further support customers in their digital transformation journey by providing a comprehensive asset lifecycle management program. The program aims to break down internal silos, offering detailed analysis of asset reliability and performance improvement opportunities and identifying conditions for the successful adoption of (new) technologies at the customer and accelerating deployment through extensive asset libraries and hands-on experience.

“This partnership represents another important milestone in our mission to drive digital transformation across all industrial sectors,” said Anthony Loy, Vice President, Industrial Digital Transformation Consulting, Schneider Electric. “By combining Schneider Electric digital transformation consulting services with MaxGrip’s renowned APM expertise, we’re ideally positioned globally, to provide greater and more specialized value to our clients.”

“We are excited to build on our long-lasting relationship with Schneider Electric to help address one of most the complex challenges faced by industries today, said Mark Mulder, CEO at MaxGrip. “Together, we will deliver innovative solutions that ensure lasting asset performance improvements, demonstrated with operational success.”

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Schneider Electric previously topped this annual list of the most sustainable publicly listed companies, generating annual revenues of over $1bn in 2021. This unique achievement underlines Schneider’s long-standing commitment and holistic approach to delivering the best environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance possible.

“For many years now, sustainability has been at the heart of what Schneider Electric does. For an IMPACT company it’s more than just a corporate goal, it’s the driving force that shapes our business decisions and inspires our employees,” said Olivier Blum, Schneider Electric’s Chief Executive Officer. “This second title as the World’s Most Sustainable Corporation from Corporate Knights, alongside other key ESG recognitions, is testimony to the valuable, long-term positive impact we have.”

This year, Schneider Electric’s number one position reflects the company’s leadership in sustainable development practices, such as the gender diversity of its executives and board directors, and its innovative solutions to facilitate energy efficiency, electrification and decarbonization. Schneider also obtained strong scores for efforts to decouple its energy consumption and carbon emissions from its business growth, and its strong investment in sustainable research and development. Corporate Knights also called out the link between executive pay incentives and Schneider Electric’s sustainability performance and ESG ratings.

“Schneider Electric’s position at the top of the Global 100 index is remarkable. No other company has accomplished this twice,” said Toby Heaps, Corporate Knights’ CEO. “This success stems from Schneider’s broad impact that goes beyond its own sustainability efforts. Schneider provides the technology to enhance energy efficiency, support decarbonisation and help other companies in their sustainable transitions.”

Compiled by the Canadian media and research company, Corporate Knights, the annual Global 100 index is based on publicly disclosed, quantitative data related to resources, employees, suppliers, sustainable revenues, and investment. The Global 100 methodology uses fixed and variable key performance indicators to rank companies among their peers. Schneider Electric has been part of the Global 100 every year for the past 14 years and in the top 10 seven times – a record for its electrical equipment manufacturing peer group.

Being awarded this title in both 2021 and 2025 coincides with the beginning and end of the five-year period of the latest Schneider Sustainability Impact program. This program measures the company’s progress across a range of transformative ESG targets set for the end of 2025 and helps maintain an unwavering focus on achieving both its global and local ambitions.

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At the Schneider Electric Action Arena, machine builders, systems integrators and OEMs with an eye on automation experienced first hand a state-of-the-art Cartesian robotics demonstration machine that showcased:

Comprehensive solutions - Featuring slides, motors, gearboxes, energy chains, and limit switches, all integrated into a single system.

Flexible configurations - Standard 1, 2 and 3 axis configurations, with cantilever and telescopic options also available.

Precision and speed - Choose between ball screw options for high-force, precise applications or belt options for applications requiring increased speed.

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As robot types from industrial and collaborative, to SCARA and delta, become mainstays of the modern production environment, how can we ensure safety and how can we deliver seamless integration with other production technologies and systems?

By watching this video you will learn: Strategies to maximise speed and productivity of collaborative robots (Cobots) while adhering to all speed and force limitations set by relevant standards; The advantages of integrated safety solutions for different types of robots, including Cartesian, SCARA, and Delta robots; and an exploration of the safety zone approach for tracking systems, specifically highlighting the Lexium MC12 multi-carrier system and its Safe Force Off zones.

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