Denner inks automation deal to deploy Pudu cleaning robots across Swiss retailer’s store network
Pudu Robotics, in collaboration with its authorised regional distributor Robobee, has announced a partnership with Denner, a Swiss discount supermarket chain and a subsidiary of Migros Group. This will see the deployment of 200 PUDU CC1 4-in-1 cleaning robots across Denner's store network.
The initiative forms part of Denner's broader modernisation programme, recently highlighted by CEO Torsten Friedrich, aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing the in-store customer experience.
"We are honoured that Denner selected PUDU CC1 to help address a critical operational challenge," says Felix Zhang, Founder and CEO at Pudu Robotics. "This deployment stems from a clear need: to maintain impeccable hygiene standards amid expanding fresh produce offerings, while alleviating the daily cleaning burden on store teams. The success of the initial pilot proved that robotics can be a reliable, safe, and integral part of the daily retail environment."
He adds: "Seeing the project scale from four pilot stores to a deployment of this size is a strong validation of both the technology and the operational value it delivers. It reflects a shared commitment to practical innovation and measurable day-to-day efficiency."
Dario Himmelsbach, CEO at Robobee, says: "Selling a robot is easy. However making it work in a complex retail environment is the real challenge. We don't do 'off-the-shelf' sales. Our holistic approach is about turning robotics into a reliable project. I'm grateful to Pudu Robotics for their agility in adapting their technology based on our solution especially designed for Denner, allowing us to apply the 'Swiss Finish' that actually turned this technology into a success that performs on every third shop within the Denner store network."
Christian Staub, Head of Sales at Denner, comments: "We're delighted to introduce smart helpers into our stores because hygiene and cleanliness remain top priorities in the supermarket environment. Ideally, we can use the time saved for other tasks.”
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
Automation will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
