Industry Briefing
A single destination for timely, editor-curated robotics news from around the world.
Fives Selected by Coop to Build Automated Distribution Center in Tortona, Italy
Fives has been selected by Coop Consorzio Nord-Ovest to construct a highly automated distribution center in Tortona, Italy. This greenfield facility aims to become a flagship site for the Italian retail sector, focusing on the logistics of fresh products such as meat, dairy, and cold cuts. The investment by Coop is significant as it seeks to enhance logistics flow management, ensuring greater accuracy, speed, and operational continuity across its supply chain. The automated system will optimize sorting operations, improve order preparation quality, and reduce manual errors, thereby reinforcing Coop's commitment to high service quality and competitiveness. Looking ahead, this project represents a major advancement in Coop's logistics network. No further timeline was disclosed at the time of publication.
AMR and AGV Automation Systems and Shuttles Materials Handling Warehousing automation distribution
Mercedes-Benz Dealerships Launch Sales of Humanoid Robots in Strategic Partnership
Mercedes-Benz dealerships have begun selling humanoid robots, specifically the U1 model from UBTECH, through a partnership with the Bosh Group. This initiative allows customers in the Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei regions to experience and purchase these advanced robots, which can engage with customers and enhance the car-buying experience. The collaboration aims to create a complete industrial ecosystem that includes technology research and development, channel operations, and after-sales service. The Bosh Group previously launched a robot experience store called 'Mechanical Eden,' which has reportedly increased foot traffic and customer engagement at Mercedes-Benz locations. Moving forward, the U1 humanoid robots will be gradually introduced into various Bosh Group dealerships, enhancing high-end automotive services and offering retail and rental options to affluent customers. This initiative marks a significant step towards the commercialization of humanoid robots, potentially setting a new standard in the industry.
Humanoid Robots Automotive Technology Retail Innovation AI Customer Experience
Mantis Robotics Extends Potential of Physical AI with New Dual-Arm Fenceless Robot for Industrial and Retail Automation
Mantis Robotics has introduced its latest innovation, the MR-X dual-arm robot, at Automate 2026 in Chicago, showcasing advancements in physical AI for industrial and retail automation. This high-performance robot, capable of lifting up to 70 lbs and operating at speeds of 10.6 m/s, is designed to function without safety fences, allowing for flexible deployment in complex environments. The MR-X is inspired by human biomechanics, enabling it to perform demanding tasks that require both strength and dexterity. Its patented SafetyCore platform provides continuous awareness of its surroundings, allowing the robot to autonomously react to nearby humans without interrupting its operations. This feature eliminates the need for traditional safety infrastructure, enhancing efficiency while maintaining safety standards. Mantis Robotics aims to revolutionize automation with the MR-X, which builds on the success of its predecessor, the MR-1, known for its certified fenceless operation. CEO Gerry Vannuffelen emphasized that the MR-X is not just another humanoid robot, but a first-in-class dual-arm system that surpasses both collaborative robots and humanoids in speed and safety. Visitors to Booth 1261 in the South Hall at Automate 2026 can witness the MR-X's capabilities firsthand, interact with the MR-1, and explore the technology that enables rapid deployment without disruption. Mantis Robotics invites attendees to schedule personalized walkthroughs and learn about priority access for early customers.
Top 8 Applications of Commercial Robotic Arms in Food and Retail Service
As the food and retail sectors evolve, JAKA is observing a rising interest in the use of commercial robotic arms to enhance operational efficiency without disrupting existing workflows. These robotic solutions, particularly compact mini arms, are designed for environments where space, safety, and cost are critical factors. In beverage shops and cafés, robotic arms are streamlining repetitive tasks like cup handling and liquid dispensing, ensuring consistent portioning during busy hours. Similarly, in fast-casual dining, these arms assist with ingredient placement and tray handling, promoting quality consistency while allowing for safe collaboration with human staff. Retail environments benefit from robotic arms as well, which can sort and restock products during off-peak hours, making them ideal for smaller stores with limited space. In takeaway and retail fulfillment, these arms facilitate packing and sealing operations, fitting seamlessly into compact back-of-house areas. Additionally, vision-assisted inspection applications are on the rise, with robotic arms enhancing the consistency of food quality checks. In retail showrooms, they engage customers through interactive demonstrations, while in back-of-house logistics, they streamline material handling tasks. For chain stores, the ability to standardize operations across multiple locations is a significant advantage, with mini robotic arms simplifying installation and training. JAKA's innovations, such as the MiniCobo, balance lightweight design with commercial usability, allowing businesses to gradually adopt automation while maintaining stable operations.
Epson Robots to Showcase Scalable Retail Automation at Shoptalk Spring 2026
Epson Robots is set to unveil its latest robotic automation solutions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency for retailers during the Shoptalk Spring event in Los Alamitos, California, on March 12, 2026. The company’s innovations are designed to improve speed, consistency, and service quality in both back-of-house operations and customer-facing experiences. By integrating these advanced technologies, Epson aims to address the growing demand for automation in the retail sector, helping businesses streamline processes and elevate customer satisfaction. The showcase at Shoptalk Spring will highlight how these solutions can transform retail environments, making them more efficient and responsive to consumer needs.
Retail Automation SCARA Industrial Robots Robotic Kiosks Automation Software
71% of Shoppers Say Viral Trends Drive Retail Demand Surges
A recent survey conducted by Locus Robotics has uncovered significant trends in consumer product preferences that are contributing to increased demand volatility within retail supply chains. The findings, released in October 2023, underscore the pressing need for retailers to adopt more adaptable and responsive strategies to manage these fluctuations effectively. As consumer behavior shifts rapidly, businesses are facing challenges in maintaining adequate inventory levels and ensuring timely delivery of products. The survey highlights that the acceleration of these trends is largely driven by changing consumer expectations and the influence of viral marketing on purchasing decisions. Retailers are urged to rethink their supply chain operations to better align with these evolving demands, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and innovation in their logistics and inventory management practices.
A Fresh Approach to Warehouse Automation
REWE, a prominent grocery retailer in Germany, has implemented automation in its fresh food operations at a logistics facility located in Oranienburg, which serves the metropolitan area north of Berlin. This initiative, executed in collaboration with Cimcorp, a leader in intralogistics automation, aims to enhance the efficiency of fulfilling fresh produce orders. The newly automated system will support over 370 supermarkets and 580 stores in the greater Berlin region, streamlining the supply chain and improving service delivery. This move reflects REWE's commitment to innovation and operational excellence in the competitive grocery market.
Automation Systems and Shuttles Components and Parts Conveying and Sortation eFulfilment Magazine Features Materials Handling
Video: New $13K humanoid from China aims to widen access to advanced robotics
Chinese robotics startup Astribot, also known as Stardust Intelligence, has recently introduced one of the country’s most advanced humanoid robots. The unveiling took place during a technology expo in Beijing on October 15, 2023. This innovative robot, designed for various applications including healthcare and customer service, aims to enhance efficiency and support human workers in multiple sectors. Astribot's motivation behind this development stems from the growing demand for automation and intelligent solutions in China’s rapidly evolving economy. The company has invested significant resources in research and development to create a robot that not only mimics human movements but also integrates artificial intelligence for improved interaction and problem-solving capabilities. The launch event showcased the robot’s features, including its ability to recognize faces, respond to voice commands, and perform complex tasks. Demonstrations highlighted its potential to assist in environments such as hospitals and retail spaces, where it can alleviate workloads and improve service delivery. As the robotics industry continues to expand, Astribot aims to position itself as a leader in the field, contributing to the broader trend of integrating advanced technology into everyday life. The introduction of this humanoid robot marks a significant milestone in China's pursuit of innovation and technological advancement.
BYD Confirms Humanoid Robot Push with Seventh-Generation 'Yao-Shun-Yu' Project Targeting 4S Stores and Homes
BYD has announced its ambitious plan to develop a seventh-generation humanoid robot, aimed at enhancing operations within global 4S dealerships. This initiative, which builds on the company's extensive experience in automotive manufacturing, seeks to integrate China's hardware capabilities with advanced artificial intelligence. The project reflects BYD's commitment to innovation and its strategy to leverage its strengths in the automotive sector to meet the evolving needs of the retail environment. As the company moves forward, it aims to position itself at the forefront of the intersection between robotics and the automotive industry, potentially transforming how dealerships operate worldwide.
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LimX Intelligence Launches LimX Luna: A Full-Size Humanoid Robot for 298,000 RMB
LimX Intelligence, a prominent embodied AI company based in Shenzhen, has unveiled its latest innovation, LimX Luna, an interactive humanoid robot. Standing at 160 centimeters tall and featuring 27 degrees of freedom, LimX Luna is designed to engage users in various interactive experiences. The robot is priced at 298,000 RMB and is targeted at the domestic retail market. This launch reflects LimX Intelligence's commitment to advancing robotics technology and expanding its presence in the growing AI sector.
HumanoidRobotics
Would you let robots spend your money? Google is betting on it
At the recent Google I/O event, Google announced a significant push into AI-driven shopping, unveiling its latest innovation: a "Universal Cart." This new feature allows users to seamlessly add products from various retailers across Google platforms, including Gemini, and plans to extend to YouTube and Gmail in the future. This initiative comes as some competitors are scaling back their efforts in the AI commerce space, highlighting Google's commitment to enhancing the online shopping experience. By integrating multiple retail options into a single cart, Google aims to streamline the purchasing process for consumers, making it easier to shop across different platforms.
AI Business Google Google I/O 2026 News Online Shopping
World’s first humanoid robot auction to debut at China’s biggest shopping event
Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com has announced its intention to launch the world’s first humanoid robot, marking a significant milestone in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. The unveiling is set to take place in early 2024 at the company’s headquarters in Beijing. This innovative development aims to enhance automation in various sectors, including retail and logistics, reflecting JD.com’s commitment to integrating advanced technology into everyday operations. The motivation behind this initiative stems from the growing demand for efficient and intelligent solutions in the e-commerce industry, particularly in response to the challenges posed by labor shortages and the need for improved customer service. By introducing a humanoid robot capable of performing complex tasks, JD.com seeks to streamline operations and reduce costs while providing a futuristic shopping experience for consumers. The process involves extensive research and development, with JD.com leveraging its expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning to create a robot that can interact with customers and assist in various functions. This launch not only positions JD.com as a leader in technological innovation but also sets a precedent for the future of humanoid robotics in commercial applications. As the company prepares for this groundbreaking event, industry experts and consumers alike are eager to see how this advancement will shape the landscape of e-commerce and beyond.
Honor reportedly to launch first humanoid robot at MWC 2026
Honor is set to launch its inaugural consumer-grade humanoid robot at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona, starting on March 1. This marks a significant milestone as Honor becomes the first Chinese smartphone manufacturer to venture into the humanoid robotics market. The robot is designed to cater to various applications, particularly in retail and home services, and will be equipped to perform a range of tasks, including product assistance. This move reflects Honor's commitment to innovation and diversification in technology, aiming to enhance user experiences in everyday environments.
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Changan Automobile and JD Group sign strategic partnership to boost smart supply chain
China Changan Automobile Group and JD Group have entered into a strategic cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing digital innovation within the automotive supply chain. The signing ceremony took place on Wednesday in Beijing and included representatives from five major Changan brands, such as Avita and Deep Blue Auto, as well as various divisions of JD Group, including JD Retail and JD Logistics. This partnership is set to focus on improving omnichannel marketing strategies and advancing smart logistics solutions, reflecting both companies' commitment to leveraging technology to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences in the automotive sector.
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Locus Robotics Revolutionizes Warehouse Logistics at “The Creative Club”
Europe’s leading online fabric retailer has announced a significant enhancement to its fulfillment processes by integrating AI-powered robotic technology. This development, which aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency, was implemented in response to the growing demand for faster delivery times and increased order volumes. The transition took place in late October 2023 at the company’s main distribution center located in Germany. By utilizing advanced robotics and artificial intelligence, the retailer seeks to optimize inventory management, reduce human error, and ultimately provide a better shopping experience for its customers. This strategic move reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and its goal of maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving e-commerce landscape.
AGIBOT debuts A3 humanoid robot in Europe and launches UK Robot-as-a-Service model
AGIBOT, a prominent developer in the field of embodied AI and robotics, recently convened the UK AGIBOT Partner Conference (APC) 2026 in London. This event represents a significant milestone in the company's strategy to expand its presence in Europe and enhance the commercial viability of humanoid robotics. The conference focused on AGIBOT's dedication to technological innovation, practical applications, and fostering local partnerships to drive long-term value in the robotics sector. Through discussions and presentations, AGIBOT highlighted its vision for the future of humanoid robotics and the importance of collaboration in achieving its objectives.
Humanoids News agibot AGIBOT A3 artificial intelligence commercial roboticsRobotics needs a service framework.
RSF defines a common language for robot service capability, lifecycle operations, certification pathways, and service-provider networks.
