Robots Revolutionize Grocery Shopping: The Future of Automation in North American Stores

Across North America, the use of robots in grocery stores is on the rise. Advanced technology enables robots to perform various duties, whether menial or complex. From cleaning, maintenance, restocking shelves, and customer assistance to inventory tracking, order fulfillment, security, and surveillance, robots reduce costs while improving efficiency. According to Expert Market Research, the North American food robotics market reached $842.94 million in 2023 and is projected to grow to nearly $1.94 billion by 2032.

Robots on the Frontline: Customer Experience

Robots play an increasingly visible role in the customer shopping experience. Ensuring that shelves are stocked and floors are clean contributes to a more pleasant and efficient shopping environment. In addition to performing routine tasks, robots are being developed to interact directly with customers, providing assistance and information. Some robots have screens that display product details, promotions, and store maps. This level of interaction improves the customer experience and allows human employees to focus on more complex tasks. Additionally, the presence of robots in stores adds an element of curiosity and whimsy to a customer’s shopping experience.

SpartanNash, a leading grocery retailer, has deployed Tally, an autonomous inventory robot from Simbe Robotics, in stores across the Midwest.

Tally monitors store shelves, ensuring products are stocked and correctly placed. Data collected by Tally informs product stocking, ordering, merchandising, and e-commerce fulfillment via Simbe’s Store Intelligence platform. The time saved and efficiencies provided by Tally give store associates more time to attend to other tasks requiring a more “human touch.”

Similarly, in partnership with Badger Technologies, Stop & Shop has expanded its use of Marty the Robot in more than 300 stores in the Northeast. Introduced in January 2019 to detect hazards such as spills and obstructions, Marty’s role has since expanded to include more complex responsibilities.

The latest version of Marty leverages computer vision, AI-driven business intelligence, and cloud-based analytics. With these upgrades, Marty now performs product checks, notifies associates when products require restocking, detects misplaced items, and continues to inform associates of potential floor hazards and spills.

Warehouse Automation: The Backbone of E-Grocery Growth

Fueled by a growing number of consumers opting for online grocery shopping, the need for efficient and scalable warehouse operations is on the rise. Grocery retailers are turning to warehouse automation to address these needs. Using automated technology, such as robotics, sensors, and software platforms, warehouse activities are carried out with minimal or no human intervention. Operating constantly, automated warehouses ensure that orders are processed and delivered promptly.

Brightpick is transforming e-commerce and e-grocery fulfillment with its  Brightpick Autopicker, an advanced AI-driven robot capable of good-to-person picking, consolidating orders, replenishing stock, and dynamic slotting. Brightpick Intuition software optimizes the entire robotic fleet, maximizing efficiency and accuracy.  Businesses implementing the system manage costs more effectively, improve operational predictability, minimize errors, and reduce labor needs.

Advancements in Fresh Produce Automation

Recent advancements in robotic technology are helping overcome challenges posed by providing fresh produce, including, but not limited to, handling, consistency, picking, sorting, and perishability. New robotic solutions are being developed to carefully pick, pack, and sort fresh produce, ensuring they reach customers in optimal condition.

RightPick™ from RightHand Robotics offers a solution to meet demand. It can gently handle grocery items while accelerating delivery times from inventory storage bins directly to outbound orders.

Such innovations are crucial in maintaining high-quality standards. By automating product handling, grocery retailers can reduce waste, improve product availability, and enhance customer satisfaction.

The Future of Grocery Automation

Automation in grocery stores enhances operational efficiency and transforms the customer experience with convenience, speed, and a touch of modernity. We can expect more personalized, efficient, and enjoyable shopping experiences as technology progresses because of AI, robots, and automation.