Tesco introduces Tally robot in store trial
Tesco has become the latest supermarket to test a human-sized inventory scanning robot, known as Tally, in one of its stores. The 6ft 5in machine, created by Simbe Robotics, autonomously navigates aisles to check pricing, promotions, and stock levels using sensors and AI. According to Simbe Robotics, Tally can detect 10 times more out-of-stock products than manual audits.
Shoppers react with mixed feelings on TikTok
Videos of Tally in action have surfaced on TikTok, with many shoppers describing the robot as 'creepy' and 'terrifying'. One Tesco worker posted a video captioned: 'A bit of company at 5am on a Sunday morning, just got to remember she is going around as gave me a bit of a scare.' Others expressed concerns that the robot would 'take people's jobs' and that using it was 'asking for trouble'. However, some viewers found Tally 'cute' and 'adorable' due to its small face.
How Tally works and its capabilities
Tally uses ultra-high-resolution imaging with enhanced 3D depth and 360° fisheye cameras to capture real-time data on out-of-stocks, pricing errors, and misplaced products. This information is delivered to store teams via a mobile app or printed report. Simbe Robotics describes Tally as 'a friendly face' with an 'approachable' and 'compact design that fits seamlessly into busy store environments'.
Tesco's broader robotics strategy
In addition to Tally, Tesco is testing cleaning robots in its stores. In June, 600 cleaning robots were deployed to Express Stores to handle routine floor cleaning, allowing staff to focus on customer service and daily operations. Retail expert Toby Pickard from the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) commented on LinkedIn that these moves suggest Tesco is 'building towards the hyper-connected store, where robotics, AI, computer vision, digital shelf infrastructure and connected operations work together to create smarter store execution, empower store colleagues, and ultimately deliver a better shopping experience.'
Previous robot trials by Morrisons
Morrisons began testing similar human-sized aisle robots in three stores last year. Those robots also roamed aisles checking price accuracy, promotions, and stock levels. Tesco's trial is currently limited to one supermarket, with the retailer stating it is 'looking forward to learning from the trial.'
