Home improvement retailer HomeBase USA has deployed Simbe’s autonomous shelf-scanning robot, Tally, to two of its stores.
The technology is now operational in Copperas Cove, Texas, and Laramie, Wyoming, with the latter being Tally’s first introduction to the US state.
HomeBase’s extensive store layouts and diverse product range make inventory management a complex task.
Tally’s deployment aims to streamline this process by providing real-time, shelf-level insights into product availability, pricing and placement.
It aims to transform store operations by reducing out-of-stock incidents, enhancing labour efficiency and improving the overall shopping experience.
HomeBase district manager Mark Dremel stated: “Getting inventory right is fundamental to our business, and with Tally, we’re equipping our teams with the insights they need to succeed.
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By GlobalData“This pilot is an exciting step toward improving both operational performance and the in-store experience, and we’re eager to see Tally’s impact as we look to scale.”
The integration of Tally into store operations is a strategic move to alleviate the burden of manual inventory tasks, which can take up to 30 hours a week and are prone to error. These tasks are also the least favoured by store employees, contributing significantly to staff turnover.
Tally is designed to address these issues by automating inventory scans multiple times daily, instantly delivering actionable data to store teams through an intuitive app and dashboard.
Simbe Robotics states that the presence of robots in stores does not deter customers, with 99% indicating equal or increased likelihood of returning.
Tally’s design is in harmony with the retail environment, ensuring a non-disruptive presence that navigates safely around customers.
Simbe’s platform has demonstrated up to 98% on-shelf availability, 90% pricing accuracy and significant time savings that allow staff to focus on more critical tasks.
Retailers have reported up to a 2% margin growth and an up-to-15-times return on investment.
Simbe’s solutions are now active in nine countries and have been introduced in the grocery, club, alcohol, home improvement and farm supply sectors.
