Tesco introduces shopfloor change in 600 Express stores | UK | News
Tesco is introducing autonomous cleaning robots to 600 of its Express stores in a major shopfloor shake-up aimed at improving efficiency and freeing up staff time.
The supermarket giant has partnered with cleaning technology company ICE to roll out the machines across its convenience store estate in what the firms claim is the largest deployment of its kind in the UK convenience sector. The robots will take over routine floor-cleaning duties, allowing shopfloor colleagues to spend more time helping customers and managing day-to-day store operations.
Tesco stressed that the machines are designed to work alongside employees rather than replace them, with staff continuing to play a central role in running stores.
According to ICE, the technology will also help deliver more consistent cleaning standards across Tesco’s Express network. The robots use data tracking and reporting systems to monitor performance and ensure cleaning tasks are completed efficiently.
ICE chief executive Mark Bresnihan said the partnership demonstrated how automation could support retail workers rather than replace them.
“As long-standing pioneers in cleaning technologies, ICE is delighted to partner with Tesco on this project,” he said.
“We are providing not just our industry-leading autonomous machines, but also the comprehensive training and service support required to make this a success.
“Together, we are showing how data-driven automation can work hand-in-hand with retail teams to improve cleaning standards.”
The move comes as retailers increasingly turn to automation to streamline operations and improve the customer experience.
Similar initiatives are already being introduced elsewhere in Europe. Swiss supermarket chain Denner, part of the Migros Group, is rolling out 200 cleaning robots across its stores as part of a wider programme to modernise operations and boost efficiency.
