APAC Manufacturers Embrace AI to Transform Corporate Real Estate Strategies

The manufacturing sector in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is undergoing a significant transformation as companies increasingly recognize the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics on their operations. A recent survey by JLL reveals that 83% of business and corporate real estate (CRE) leaders in manufacturing anticipate substantial changes to their portfolio strategies due to AI over the next three to five years. This shift is prompting manufacturers to actively prepare their physical environments to facilitate collaboration with emerging technologies.

The JLL Future of Work Survey 2026 indicates a strong readiness among manufacturing CRE leaders, with 71% expressing confidence in their ability to work alongside AI and robotics, significantly higher than the APAC average of 58%. This readiness is reflected in budget allocations, with nearly 40% of manufacturers having earmarked funds for redesigning workplaces to accommodate human-AI collaboration. As organizations invest in infrastructure, they are focusing on critical elements such as floor loads, clear pathways, and charging stations for robotics, as well as designing workspaces that promote effective interaction between human workers and AI systems.

The implications of these investments are profound. The physical setup of manufacturing facilities will play a crucial role in determining how effectively organizations can integrate AI and robotics into their operations over the next decade. Facilities must not only support the technological infrastructure but also foster environments conducive to innovation and collaboration. This includes implementing embedded sensors for real-time monitoring and creating spaces for rapid prototyping, which are essential for maximizing the benefits of AI.

However, readiness in physical spaces is only part of the equation. The survey highlights a significant skills gap in AI and emerging technologies, with 40% of manufacturers citing this as a primary constraint on CRE value creation. Additionally, labor shortages in skilled trades are more pronounced in manufacturing, with 31% of firms reporting difficulties compared to 24% across the broader APAC region. This skills gap poses a challenge: while manufacturers can deploy AI tools, they often lack the expertise to troubleshoot and scale these technologies effectively. Without skilled tradespeople, the operation of AI-enabled facilities becomes increasingly difficult.

To address these challenges, manufacturers must prioritize both space and workforce readiness. Facilities designed for AI and robotics provide a competitive advantage, but this benefit is contingent upon a workforce that is equally prepared. Upskilling employees and implementing change management strategies are essential steps for organizations to adapt to new technologies. In cases where internal expertise is lacking, partnering with CRE specialists can help manufacturers access the necessary AI implementation and analytics capabilities while maintaining strategic control over their operations.

As the manufacturing landscape evolves, the integration of AI and robotics will not only reshape operational efficiencies but also redefine workforce dynamics. Companies that proactively invest in both infrastructure and talent development will likely emerge as leaders in this new era. The focus on collaboration between humans and machines signals a shift toward more agile, innovative manufacturing processes. As these trends continue to unfold, organizations that successfully navigate the complexities of this transition will position themselves for sustained growth and competitive advantage in the rapidly changing market.