Australian and New Zealand businesses are stepping up their game as an increasing number of companies continue to look at next-generation technology such as drones, automation and AI to grow and manage costs.
New Zealand businesses are increasing their acquisition of Industry 4.0 assets such as big data, artificial intelligence and drones, according to the latest Alleasing Equipment Demand Index.
A national average of 44.8 per cent of all businesses plan to add assets during the September quarter 2017, with 13.4 per cent of those stating they intend to acquire assets such as big data, artificial intelligence and drones, up from 7.9 per cent in the March quarter of this year.
Larger businesses are the most ambitious, with 20.0 per cent of upper corporate businesses looking to invest in this area against 4.5 per cent of SMEs.
“Larger businesses appear to be leading the charge towards next generation technology,” said Daniel Blizzard, chief executive of Alleasing.
“Industry 4.0 technology will have a positive effect on the wider economy, transforming businesses across the spectrum from health to agriculture. There has never been such an abundance of cutting-edge technology available, making this an ideal time to make the most of what is available to build an agile business.”
New and innovative technology is in strong demand across all industries, including services (including healthcare) and agriculture.
Of the businesses who are actively looking to invest in this type of technology, 40.4 per cent indicate that business growth will be the primary benefit, while 35.8 per cent cite the ability to develop new products.