Seems more interesting that automation via robotics is initially driven by car manufacturing [0], of which Germany and France produce substantially more units [1]
That said the UK government should really get a grip and have a coherent long term strategy instead of fire fighting the next media storm from week to week. Automation will need to increase given an ageing population, people exiting the workforce ( willingly or through care or health reasons ) and closing the door to immigration via Brexit.
Brexit has been absolute poison for the automotive industry in the UK, as expected. I would not expect much innovation or investment when there is so much uncertainty on trade and regulations. Politically it seems there is no appetite to face that reality though.