Grocery shopping could soon feel like stepping into a science fiction movie as a major retail group brings robot helpers into everyday store aisles for the night shift
Friendly mechanical helpers join retail staff in stores
Salling Group is currently testing tall humanoid machines inside a popular Føtex branch located just outside Copenhagen. Store employees usually spend long hours unboxing heavy crates and lifting bulky goods onto shelves during the night shifts, but now the store is trialling letting smart machines carry out these repetitive tasks to save workers from aching backs and giving them far more energy to assist shoppers on the shop floor during the days opening hours.
Smart local technology and world class hardware
Danish tech company Hive Robots created the artificial intelligence powering these machines by using physical bodies crafted by Chinese robotics manufacturer Unitree. Training sessions began during summer 2026, where remote controls were used to guide the robots through delicate hand movements. Machine learning systems absorbed this practical practice, slowly discovering how to handle fragile cereal boxes or glass jars without dropping them. Project leaders hope these mechanical assistants will begin restocking shelves on their own by early 2027, working quiet night-time shifts while customer doors remain closed.
Overcoming real world challenges before full launch
Early tests show that artificial intelligence still moves slower than experienced shop assistants and needs much human guidance. Safety rules across Denmark must also change before these metallic helpers can stroll freely alongside daytime families. Future plans include teaching the machines to scan use-by dates, notice empty shelf spaces, and tidy up misplaced items. Supermarket leaders feel confident that this trial offers an exciting glimpse into the future of everyday food shopping. EWN also reported on how automated tech is expanding into transport hubs, in this article where robots are being tested in Tokyo Haneda Airport.
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