Scotmid Co-op is rolling out robotic cleaning machines across 14 stores.
The machines, called Gausium Phantas Pro, will work alongside the society’s cleaning teams, using smart navigation that allows them to move safely around stores while scrubbing different types of flooring.
They can operate in busy spaces by detecting and avoiding both static and moving obstacles, Scotmid added.
The Scottish convenience retailer said the robotic cleaners would allow its cleaning teams to spend more time on supporting store standards for customers and colleagues.
It will also free up time for Scotmid’s store staff, who also have some general cleaning responsibilities, to focus on other customer service duties.
The robots are operated and maintained by Scotmid’s cleaning partner Spotless Commercial Cleaning. The company has been reappointed to provide cleaning services to the society for a further three years following a “competitive tender process”.
Spotless has worked with Scotmid, which operates 177 food stores, since 2018. The society said the introduction of robotic cleaners formed part of its continued investment in new machinery and technology.
“The trial showed colleagues could quickly see the benefit,” said Scotmid procurement and sustainability manager Allan Robertson. “By taking care of regular floor cleaning, the robots made a practical difference to the day-to-day running of the store.
“For our teams, it means more time can be spent where people are needed most, helping customers, dealing with spills or focusing on areas that need a human eye.
“It’s a practical example of innovation supporting colleagues, strengthening store standards and helping us provide the experience our members and customers expect.”
Spotless Commercial Cleaning CEO Carron Henley said: “We’re proud to build on our long-standing partnership with Scotmid and to support the introduction of robotic cleaning technology across these stores.
“Our teams know Scotmid’s stores well, and this investment reflects our shared commitment to finding practical ways to support colleagues, improve efficiency and maintain high standards for customers and members.”
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