From curiosity to capability: building a robotics strategy for the future of gin - Ginposium 2026
Naomi Battison
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The National Robotarium
The gin sector is being reshaped by powerful external forces. Rising energy and material costs, sustainability expectations, evolving regulation, export complexity and changing consumer demand are all placing pressure on margins while raising expectations around quality, transparency and brand integrity.
In this environment, robotics and AI are not simply about automation – they are about resilience and long-term strategy.
This session will explore what robotics adoption really means across the spectrum of gin production. For small and craft distilleries, adoption may not mean full automation. It may mean targeted support in areas such as packing, labelling, data capture or compliance – protecting craftsmanship while easing operational strain. For larger-scale distilleries, it may involve integrated systems across production, warehousing and logistics, improving traceability, efficiency and workforce sustainability.
The key message is that adoption looks different at every scale and it should. Robotics is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
We will look at why reacting to external pressure with isolated technology purchases can create fragmentation, workforce resistance and limited return. Instead, businesses benefit from taking a step back: understanding operational pain points from the shop floor to leadership, engaging teams early, and aligning robotics with long-term commercial and people strategy.
Drawing on the National Robotarium’s experience supporting industry readiness and roadmapping, this session offers a strategic lens on robotics and helping distilleries think beyond the technology itself and focus on building capability, culture and community around responsible adoption.
Change is coming. The opportunity lies in shaping it intentionally, at the right scale, and in a way that strengthens both heritage and future growth.
Buy tickets to Ginposium online now:
Ginposium 2026
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- 12th June 2026
- RSA House, London
The views and opinions expressed in this presentation are those of the individual contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views or position of The Gin Guild.
Presentations are provided for general information and were accurate to the best of the speakers’ knowledge at the time of recording. The Gin Guild does not accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies, nor for any actions taken in reliance on the information provided.