Embodied AI firms expand humanoid robot use in retail

Embodied AI companies are expanding the commercial application of humanoid robots in retail environments. Lingyu Intelligence has secured several hundred million yuan in Pre-A round funding from investors including Zhuzhou Industrial Investment and Feitu Venture Capital. The company is deploying its TA series robots in JD Seven Fresh supermarkets, where they perform tasks such as shelf stocking and sample delivery amidst moving crowds.

Simultaneously, Galbot has launched the first fully autonomous robot retail store in Hong Kong, named ‘Galbot Store’. Founder and CTO Wang He stated that the company aims to open dozens of locations in high-traffic areas to increase public awareness and gather data. While acknowledging high rental costs in Hong Kong, the company expects profitability through expanded robot applications in sectors like pharmacies and museums. Galbot views Hong Kong as a strategic bridgehead for global expansion, following existing sales in Japan, South Korea, Europe, and the Middle East.