Simbe's Tally autonomous shelf scanning robot rolls into Homebase USA stores as pilot kicks off

HomeBase USA is testing out Simbe’s Store Intelligence platform, which includes the Tally autonomous shelf-scanning robot, at its locations in Copperas Cove, Texas, and Laramie, Wyoming.

Tally captures real-time data on product availability, pricing, and placement, with the aim of achieving fewer out of stocks and an improved customer experience. The Laramie store introduction marks the first deployment of the robot in Wyoming.

Simbe said: “HomeBase joins other farm and ranch retailers already using me to make shopping smoother and team jobs easier. Together, we're ensuring the right items are always in the right place, at the right price.”

Caitlin Allen, SVP of Market at Simbe, added: “For store associates, repetitive inventory checks can eat up hours each week, and aren’t exactly anyone’s favourite task. Automating those checks means teams can focus on what really matters: helping customers and keeping the shopping experience smooth. Excited to watch HomeBase unlock even more efficiency and team impact with Tally in the aisles.”

Mark Dremel, District Manager at HomeBase, commented: “Getting inventory right is fundamental to our business, and with Tally, we’re equipping our teams with the insights they need to succeed. 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.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Autonomous retail 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. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.