A new robotic capability enables retailers to remotely monitor store shelves.

The ability to quickly monitor and understand inventory levels could give us much more insight into the micro-segment and exact value of each shelf

Dive Brief:

Simbe Robotics has introduced an advanced technology solution that allows grocers to remotely monitor store shelves, inventory levels, and product layouts using data and imagery captured by Tally, the company’s aisle-scanning robots. This innovative system, announced on Tuesday, is accessible via mobile devices and desktop computers, providing high-definition snapshots and time-lapse footage of store shelves at multiple heights.

Additionally, Simbe has developed new mobile apps to enable store staff and managers to access and analyze the captured data using their smartphones, reflecting the growing reliance on data-driven tools in retail operations.

Enhancing Tally Robots with Advanced Monitoring Capabilities

These new features are designed to enhance the functionality of Simbe’s Tally robots, which are already deployed in several major grocery chains, including BJ’s Wholesale Club, SpartanNash, Schnuck Markets, and Wakefern Food Corp. As Tally robots autonomously navigate store aisles, they capture detailed images of products, allowing retailers to track inventory placement, assess product organization, and receive early alerts on low-stock items.

Despite the robots’ comprehensive data collection abilities, Simbe CEO Brad Bogolea highlighted the need for a more user-friendly way to access this information. “We’ve always been capturing stores at this deep level, but how do we make this information more accessible and easier to use?” Bogolea said.

Mobile Access to Real-Time Store Data

The newly launched app, available on Apple iOS, Google Android mobile platforms, and proprietary handheld devices, aims to simplify access to data from Tally-equipped stores. This approach allows retail personnel to leverage their existing devices, eliminating the need for specialized equipment and making the data more readily accessible, according to Bogolea.

Expanding Tally’s Reach and Capabilities

Currently, Tally robots are deployed in approximately 1,000 retail locations, with additional deployments in negotiation. The newly introduced virtual store navigation system provides retailers with near real-time visibility into store conditions, offering 360-degree views of store interiors. This capability enables store managers to monitor store environments remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

The new app and remote-monitoring tools are available as an optional add-on to the standard Tally platform. “There are retailers that elect to just run with our data from an [application programming interface] or data-integration standpoint. But if we’re providing a richer set of tools that they can use directly, there’s the opportunity for us to capture more value,” Bogolea added.

This development underscores Simbe Robotics’ commitment to providing cutting-edge technology solutions that improve operational efficiency and enhance the in-store shopping experience for retailers and customers alike.