University of Hull invites ports and logistics businesses to explore robotics through free workshop
A free, one-day workshop at the University of Hull will give businesses across the ports and logistics sector the opportunity to explore emerging robotics technologies and identify practical opportunities for automation.
The University of Hull is inviting businesses working across the ports and logistics sector to take part in a free, fully funded workshop designed to help organisations understand the potential of robotics and automation and how emerging technologies could address real operational challenges.
Taking place on Wednesday, December 2, it forms part of the University’s £300,000 Port and Logistics Robotics Adoption Programme (PORTaL), backed by Innovate UK through UKRI’s Robotics Adoption Programme.
The wider initiative aims to help UK ports improve productivity, resilience and international competitiveness by accelerating the adoption of robotics technologies.
Developed in collaboration with port owners, operators and industry partners, PORTaL addresses the skills and capability gaps that are currently limiting the deployment of robotics across the sector. It provides industry-focused training to help professionals working in ports, terminals, warehouses and logistics environments assess, pilot and implement robotics solutions with confidence.
Making robotics accessible to businesses
The one-day workshop will introduce participants to a range of emerging technologies, including drones, mobile robots, machine vision and automated inspection systems, explaining their capabilities and potential applications in clear, accessible language. No previous technical or programming experience is required.
Using the concept of ‘dull, dirty, dangerous and difficult’ tasks, participants will explore their own operations to identify where automation could offer the greatest benefits. The workshop will also cover important considerations around regulatory frameworks, safety governance, procurement risks and interoperability.
Rather than encouraging businesses to adopt technology for its own sake, the session focuses on helping organisations distinguish genuine opportunities from technology-led experimentation and understand where robotics could deliver practical value.
Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of the technologies available, the risks and considerations involved, and potential automation opportunities specific to their organisation.
Supporting innovation and skills across the region
The workshop is particularly relevant to businesses across Hull, East Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire, including port operators, logistics providers, warehousing businesses and organisations within associated supply chains.
Professor Dhaval Thakker, Professor of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), said: “UK ports handle around 95% of the country’s imports and exports by volume, making them a vital part of the national economy. Yet freight volumes fell to 429.7 million tonnes in 2024, the lowest recorded in more than 25 years.
“The benefits of robotics are already being demonstrated in UK ports. At Associated British Ports, drone-based inspections have reduced inspection times by up to 55%, while improving safety and cost-effectiveness.
“PORTaL will provide practical, independent guidance and training to help businesses identify opportunities, reduce risk and build the capability needed to adopt robotics effectively.”
The programme is being delivered with support from partners and stakeholders including the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT UK), and the University of Hull Logistics Advisory Board.
Free workshop details
- Date: Wednesday 2 December 2026
- Time: 8.30am – 4.00pm
- Location: University of Hull
- Cost: Free to attend – fully funded by Innovate UK
- Who should attend: Businesses and organisations working across ports, logistics, warehousing and associated supply chains.
Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Businesses interested in exploring the potential of robotics and automation within their operations are encouraged to register their interest.
To find out more about PORTaL please email exec-education@hull.ac.uk and to register for the free workshop, visit: https://hubs.formstack.com/forms/uoh_portal