The industrial sector has historically had a tough time finding enough skilled labor—but technology may be the key.

As much as 30% of the industrial sector workforce can be replaced by tech, according to a new global logistics report by Cushman & Wakefield. In locations with higher wage costs, adopting automated solutions in lieu of headcount can have a big impact on a company's bottom line.

"Recognizing that labor costs can be both cyclical and structural in nature and that it may take years to implement a new, long-term course for the business, companies can begin by finding ways to diversify their exposure over the short- to medium-term," the report advises. "Either geographic or operational diversification can successfully achieve labor cost reduction allowing for a 'wait and see' approach ahead of any commitment to a complete and costly overhaul of production and supply chains.