Pudu Robotics and Robobee Partner with Denner to Transform Swiss Supermarkets with Cleaning Robots

Pudu Robotics Collaborates with Denner for Robot Cleaning

Pudu Robotics has recently announced a significant strategic partnership with Denner, a leading Swiss supermarket chain, in collaboration with its authorized regional partner Robobee. The initiative focuses on deploying 200 PUDU CC1 cleaning robots extensively across Denner's stores in Switzerland. This move marks an important milestone in the automation of retail operations in Europe, aiming to enhance both operational efficiency and customer experience.

The introduction of these advanced 4-in-1 cleaning robots began in late 2025 and comes as part of Denner’s broader modernization efforts, which were highlighted by their CEO, Torsten Friedrich. The goal is to maintain high hygiene standards, particularly as fresh produce offerings increase, thus alleviating the daily cleaning burdens faced by store teams.

According to Felix Zhang, the founder and CEO of Pudu Robotics, the decision to implement the CC1 robots was driven by the clear need to keep hygiene standards impeccably high within the growing range of fresh products. He noted that the successful pilot project demonstrated that these robots could truly become a reliable and integral part of daily retail operations, allowing staff to redirect their focus toward more impactful customer service roles.

Dario Himmelsbach, CEO of Robobee, emphasized that selling a robot is just the beginning; making it functional in a complex retail environment is the real test. The approach taken by Robobee avoids one-size-fits-all solutions, instead customizing the technology to suit Denner's specific needs. This customization has allowed them to provide what they refer to as a ‘Swiss Finish’, ensuring that these robots are effectively utilized across Denner’s extensive network of stores.

In light of increasing operational demands, the introduction of autonomous cleaning technology has been a crucial step. The heightened focus on hygiene has made efficient and consistent floor care a priority for the chain. A pilot program conducted in four stores proved successful, revealing that the PUDU CC1 robots could handle these routine tasks efficiently and without disruption during business hours.

Christian Staub, Sales Director at Denner, reiterated the importance of hygiene in the grocery sector. He noted, “We are very pleased to introduce these intelligent helpers into our stores as hygiene and cleanliness remain top priorities in the supermarket environment.” Importantly, the robots are not meant to replace staff but rather assist them. Staub mentioned that the saved time can now be allocated to other important tasks, enhancing customer engagement and product care.

The decision to choose Pudu Robotics’ CC1 model was primarily due to its advanced technology and appealing design, noted Nihad Zoronjic, Manager at Denner. He pointed out that the robot's aesthetics align perfectly with Denner’s innovative brand image, while its autonomous operation would enhance both the frequency and quality of cleaning.

Pudu’s strong local partnership with Robobee facilitated smooth implementation, with Robobee providing essential support including project planning, staff training, and ongoing maintenance, thereby ensuring the robots operate efficiently within daily business routines.

Beyond the CC1 series being deployed at Denner, Pudu Robotics boasts an extensive portfolio of cleaning robots designed for various applications. The range includes the PUDU MT1 series for larger spaces and the cutting-edge PUDU BG1 series, touted as the first AI-native robot for large-area cleaning tasks. This positions Pudu well in sectors like retail, industrial, and logistics, while also expanding into new opportunities.

The PUDU CC1 robot stands out in several ways: it manages to clean up to 2,000 square meters using only 15 liters of water, a stark contrast to the 100 liters typically required with manual cleaning. This heightened efficiency not only increases productivity but significantly reduces labor costs and repetitive manual tasks.

As Alex Rauch from Denner’s management team notes, the initiative has been beneficial, with robots effectively aiding employees in maintaining a clean and safe environment, ultimately enhancing the brand image and operational efficiency. Furthermore, Pudu has developed bespoke software to tackle challenges such as the mineral-rich water typical in Europe, ensuring effective operations and preventing limescale buildup in Denner stores.

Pudu Robotics is a frontrunner in commercial service robotics, dedicated to leveraging AI and robotics to improve human work and enhance life quality. Their mission is to build a global intelligent robotics infrastructure to serve billions of people worldwide. Their ongoing research focuses on navigation algorithms, multi-robot coordination, and integrated motion control systems.

In conclusion, the partnership between Pudu Robotics, Robobee, and Denner signifies a remarkable step towards modernizing retail through robotics, emphasizing innovation, reliability, and efficient service in a pivotal industry.