Kroger pilot sees deployment of in-store autonomous robots for inventory management and pricing accuracy

In a project involving Badger Technologies, The Kroger Co. is testing out in-store robots in two of its markets, including at locations in and around its hometown of Cincinnati. The autonomous robots, Simbe's Tally and another dubbed Barney after the grocer’s founder, are being used for real-time inventory management and pricing accuracy.

A pilot is active at a number of stores, with the Tally deployment also extending to the Indianapolis area.

“We are always exploring new ways to create a more convenient and friendly customer experience,” Kroger said in statement. It added that utilising the robots “means our associates can more easily and quickly identify and address shelves where products are low or out of stock.”

E-commerce

Kroger has announced the creation of a new e-commerce business unit, which aligns the teams contributing to every aspect of the online customer experience.

Yael Cosset, Kroger's Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer, will lead this function as Executive VP and Chief Digital Officer.

"Accelerating our e-commerce growth is a top priority," says Ron Sargent, Kroger's Chairman and CEO. "As the architect of Kroger's digital strategy, Yael will continue to make it easier for customers to shop for our fresh, affordable food."

Kroger's e-commerce sales reached $13 billion in 2024.

Gregg London, a supply chain consultant, comments: “Both Kroger and Albertsons are trying to make up for "lost time" as a result of the merger fiasco. CEO changes, senior management changes, and more. While e-commerce is important, it seems like more of a "band aid" for faltering sales, and a "low cost" way of furthering customer loyalty. Will it work? Time will tell.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

E-commerce will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.