Hive Robots begins training humanoid robots for supermarket restocking

In Lyngby, Denmark, humanoid robots are undergoing training to perform night-shift restocking duties at supermarkets. This multi-year trial, led by the Danish startup Hive Robots, aims to automate routine tasks so human employees can focus more on customer service.

The robots, manufactured by the Chinese company Unitree, are designed with arms, legs, and fingers to operate in environments built for humans without requiring store layout modifications. During the training process, human operators use virtual reality glasses and handheld controllers to guide the robots through tasks, such as placing pasta bags on shelves. This demonstration provides the data necessary to teach the machines to eventually operate independently.

Training began in June at Føtex, a grocery chain owned by the Salling Group. Hive Robots expects that by early 2027, the robots may be able to restock certain products autonomously, with retailers paying for the service on an hourly basis.