Kroger is testing new robot technology to keep closer tabs on inventory.
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Reuters
In the past few months, Greater Cincinnati Kroger shoppers may have noticed something out of the ordinary: a robot with shining blue lights, perusing shelves and casting a narrow ray of bright light at merchandise.
Fear not. These are not our new robot overlords, but a pilot program in 35 citywide locations testing the new technology to keep closer tabs on inventory in real-time. Kroger officials are tight-lipped about the project, offering few details:
“We are always exploring new ways to create a more convenient and friendly customer experience,” the Cincinnati-based supermarket chain said in a statement, adding that the robotic system “means our associates can more easily and quickly identify and address shelves where products are low or out of stock.”
Kroger said the test began in 2024. If customers are still curious – or nervous – “Barney” the robot (named after Kroger founder Bernard “Barney” Kroger) has a small note of introduction affixed to him instead of a name tag:
“Meet your new Kroger team member! ‘Barney’ is here to improve your shopping experience by scanning shelves for missing items and to ensure correct pricing,” read the note on one robot recently spotted in Kroger’s Delhi Township store in suburban Cincinnati. The note concluded by promising customers Barney wasn’t recording any personal information or taking people’s picture.
Kroger officials said the robots are also being tested in the company’s central division, which is headquartered in Indianapolis and covers most of Indiana and part of Illinois.
Kroger operates more than 2,700 stores in 35 states and the District of Columbia. The retailer operates stores under the Kroger banner name as well as Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Harris Teeter, Pick ‘n Save, Dillons, King Soopers, Mariano’s, Fry’s, QFC and others.
The company employs almost 414,000 workers, including about 20,000 in its hometown region, including its local stores, downtown Cincinnati headquarters and 8451 consumer analytics subsidiary, online fulfillment center, and its two manufacturing plants in Cincinnati’s Lower Price Hill neighborhood and suburban Springdale.
