Major British retailers, including Tesco, Asda, and Next, are turning to Chinese technology to optimize their supply chains. The shift is led by companies like Geek+, a prominent supplier of autonomous mobile robots that navigate warehouse floors to transport inventory, replacing the need for fixed conveyor systems.

The adoption of these robots comes as the UK faces long-standing productivity stagnation. According to the OECD's 2026 report on SME technology adoption, the UK lags behind in robotics despite its strong manufacturing history. For firms like Geek+, which recently listed in Hong Kong, the UK represents a significant market where warehouses are still in the early stages of automation. Partner firm MotionTech has already deployed over 2,000 of these units across 10 British sites.

Barry Pemberton, an account director at MotionTech, noted that businesses are seeking solutions to address labor shortages while maintaining high-volume storage and fast picking speeds. “These technologies are really important to keep businesses thriving and meet demand,” Pemberton said.

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However, the rise of automation has drawn caution from the Trades Union Congress (TUC). The organization, representing nearly 6 million workers, has urged the government to ensure that the integration of robotics focuses on improving job quality and productivity rather than solely reducing labor costs. The TUC advocates for worker involvement in automation decisions and a commitment to retraining programs.

China’s push into the global robotics market is part of a broader strategic initiative to develop “new quality productive forces.” Experts suggest that China is leveraging its robust electric vehicle supply chain—utilizing shared components like sensors, semiconductors, and motors—to gain a competitive edge in robotics. While the US recently implemented import bans on certain advanced foreign robots citing national security, the UK remains an active testing ground for these technologies.

Looking ahead, developers are exploring end-to-end unmanned solutions, including the potential for humanoid robots. While companies like AgiBot and Unitree are investing heavily in humanoid designs, industry experts suggest these will likely serve as a complementary technology to existing wheeled warehouse robots rather than a wholesale replacement.

Source: BBC News