Simbe's Tally shelf-scanning robot is being piloted in SuperValu supermarket stores across Ireland

SuperValu, a Musgrave Group owned supermarket chain that operates throughout Ireland, has been testing out Simbe’s Tally in-store shelf scanning robot.

A trial got underway in two stores in October. This, according to the retailer, has been “very successful” at keeping shelves stocked.

The pilot is now in its second phase, which has more fully integrated the robots into other systems and processes. Subject to results, SuperValu says it roll-out to further stores.

In a LinkedIn post, Cara Griffin, Business & Technology Architecture Analyst, at Accenture, said: “For me, this is a full circle moment. My first job during secondary school was at my local SuperValu store. It was there I learned the importance of customer experience in business success, and where I developed a human centred approach to service. I carried those lessons with me into my role in technical support at Apple, and now into my work today at Accenture, where I help to reimagine the customer experience using innovative technologies.”

She added: “Personally, I see this innovation as a positive one. Automating repetitive tasks like stock checking has the potential to drive efficiency, allowing staff to spend more time on higher value customer interactions. In response to concerns from trade unions, Musgrave has reassured that roles will not be affected, but rather supported to deliver even better service.”

“That said, I think this is the kind of innovation that should spark a wider conversation around how we introduce new technologies into physical retail in a way that doesn’t just improve operations, but enhances the consumer experience. Whether it's a chat with a staff member or a sense of belonging in the local community, the human touch remains central to customer satisfaction, and has only become more valuable post-Covid.”

Morrisons

In a UK first, Morrisons is also testing out Tally.

Thanks to Toby Pickard, Retail Futures Senior Partner at IGD, and a member of the judging panels for the RTIH AI in Retail Awards and 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, for bringing this to our attention.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: “Today, I saw a Tally robot from Simbe in a Morrisons. This is the first time Tally has been deployed in the UK. It has only been in store for a few weeks, and there are two other stores trialling the technology.”

“The tech should help with price accuracy and stock availability, along with other benefits. It is great to see technology being tested in UK retail that can help store associates and improve the shopping experience.”

Seamus McHugh, Head of European Market Development at Simbe, commented: “Delighted to have Tally live in the UK and to be working with the innovative team at Morrisons on this project. This is a significant milestone for Simbe as we add another country and a new retailer to our growing list of deployments.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Automation will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

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