Tesco has introduced a major new cleaning rule in 600 of its UK stores. The major supermarket chain has begun rolling out cleaning robots across its Express stores. The new scheme, created in partnership with cleaning technology firm ICE, will see the robots take on repetitive cleaning tasks from shopfloor staff, allowing employees to spend more time serving customers and managing other shopfloor tasks.
ICE said that the robots will provide a more consistent cleaning standard across Tesco’s convenience estate, with the technology permitting performance to be monitored through data tracking and reporting.
The tech firm’s chief executive, Mark Bresnihan, said that the partnership between the firm and Tesco unveils how automotion could support retain teams rather than sit separately from them, Retail Gazette reports.
“As long-standing pioneers in cleaning technologies, ICE is delighted to partner with Tesco on this project,” he said.
“We are providing not just our industry-leading autonomous machines, but also the comprehensive training and service support required to make this a success.
“Together, we are showing how data-driven automation can work hand-in-hand with retail teams to improve cleaning standards.”
In other Tesco news, the supermarket has also changed its free delivery policy. Tesco is offering free delivery on orders over £25 via its Whoosh service. The limited-time promotion will run from June 11 to June 17.
Francesca Jones, head of Whoosh, said: “We know there are times when customers need groceries and household essentials quickly, whether that’s a last-minute top-up, forgotten essentials for hosting, or snacks for a big week of football.
“By offering free delivery on orders over £25 for a limited time, we’re making it even easier for customers to enjoy the great value they expect from Tesco, with the speed and convenience of Whoosh.”