Retail technology big hitter Zebra Technologies set to acquire 3D vision technology firm Photoneo

Zebra Technologies has announced its intention to acquire Brightpick subsidiary Photoneo, a developer and manufacturer of 3D machine vision solutions.

Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed. It follows the creation this year of an OEM relationship for Photoneo’s cameras that expanded Zebra’s 3D portfolio offering.

“This acquisition addresses the needs of customers globally who want to maximize the potential of machine vision within their frontline operations,” says Bill Burns, Chief Executive Officer, Zebra Technologies.

“Building on our proven expertise in autonomous data capture, inspection software and deep learning AI capabilities, this combination expands our portfolio of highly differentiated 3D sensors and advanced 3D machine vision software."

"What a bittersweet moment this is. This must be what it feels like watching your child grow up and leave the nest," says Jan Zizka, Founder and CEO at Brightpick.

"On one hand, I’m incredibly proud to see our baby, which we started literally in Tomas Kovacovsky's (CTO) garage, grow into the market leader in 3D vision guided robotics and be acquired by a major US corporation."

"On the other hand, it’s difficult to say goodbye to 120 amazing colleagues and friends who have been by our side through thick and thin. While it’s impossible to name everyone, this would not have been possible without their dedication and hard work."

He adds: "I’m certain that Zebra will provide the perfect home for Photoneo. By combining its industry leading 3D vision technology with Zebra’s global reach, Photoneo is poised for even greater growth and success. This deal is also a game-changer for Brightpick. The significant capital it brings will enable us to reinvest in scaling manufacturing and deployment to meet the surging demand for our AI robots.”

"With our ARR growing 8x in 2024 and our 2025 production capacity nearly fully booked, this funding couldn’t come at a better time to help us serve even more customers. Plus we will have plenty of money left over to distribute to our existing investors. Here’s to the exciting road ahead for Photoneo, Brightpick, and everyone involved!"

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

As AI sees increasing adoption in the retail space, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

FAQs

Is there a fee to enter the awards?: No, it is free of charge.

Can I enter across multiple categories: Yes.

Do I need to complete all the sections in the entry form? No, but the more information you provide, the better chance you have of producing a successful submission.

Is there a certain timeframe for nominated projects, initiatives etc? Yes, nominated projects, initiatives etc should have been completed (or substantially completed) during the last 12 months.

Who has visibility of our completed entry form and what information will be public should we win or be shortlisted? Only our Editor, Scott Thompson, and judging panel will view submissions. The information provided in the summary section of the entry form will be made public.

Do you only accept entries from UK-based companies? No, we accept entries from all parts of the world.

What is the shortlists process? Shortlists will be announced in April 2025, then shortlisted entries will be sent to our independent judging panel who will decide upon the winners and highly commended submissions. Shortlisted companies will be invited to attend an awards ceremony at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July 2o25.

Do winners and highly commended companies receive post-event coverage? Yes, post-event coverage includes articles on our website and also an in-depth awards review in our printed magazine. There is also the opportunity for a company profile type piece to be published on our site and within our magazine.

When is the deadline for 2025 submissions? Friday, 23rd May 2025.

When will the 2025 winners be revealed? Winners will be announced at an event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July. This will kick off with a drinks reception, followed by a three course meal, awards ceremony, and after party featuring DJ until midnight.

Who will be judging submissions? Details of our 2025 judging panel will be announced in the near future.