The world's first investment firm aimed at actively creating companies of consequence out of emerging robotics breakthroughs. Their team, headquartered in Pittsburgh but reaching nationally, is positioned to use unique resources to develop the kind of organizations that will one day redefine the way we live and work. Their investment approach is designed to rapidly identify the most viable ideas and strategies, concentrate resources around them, and get these ideas quickly to their growth phase. They work to provide a level of active support much closer to that of cofounder than a typical venture investor.

The Robotics Hub

Playground Global is an early-stage venture capital firm backing technical and scientific founders with deep engineering expertise, a collaborative environment, and a first-hand understanding of the intricacies of deep tech. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Palo Alto, CA, Playground’s mission is to transform ambitious ideas into impactful businesses that benefit humanity and the planet.  We invest in areas that span across next gen compute automation, energy transition and engineered biology. Playground has been an early – and frequently first investor – in companies that include PsiQuantum, Relativity Space, Ultima Genomics, MosaicML (acq. by Databricks), d-Matrix, and Strand Therapeutics.

Playground Global

Sony Innovation Fund is the corporate venture capital arm of Sony that invests and engages in early-stage companies. Beyond investment, our mission is to provide resources such as access to the broader Sony world and its global network, as well as collaborate with startups to:  • Foster business creation in related lines of business and new areas of interest to Sony  • Catalyze a talented and passionate team  Sony innovation Fund was founded in 2016.

Sony Innovation Fund

The Coal Hill name comes from the original name for Mount Washington, an iconic Pittsburgh landmark that helped power both the city and the birth of the international steel industry.  Another globally-reaching opportunity is taking root in the city right now, where its density of talent in Advanced Robotics can catalyze an even greater transformation of the global economy than steel.  Their organization spun out of Carnegie Mellon's world- renowned robotics lab for the purpose of accelerating this robotics revolution.  This starts with their Robotics Hub Accelerator and Venture Fund, and includes all of the intellectual and infrastructure support needed to overcome the challenges of the forming Advanced Robotics industry.

Coal Hill Ventures

DCVC backs entrepreneurs using Deep Tech to solve problems and multiply the benefits of capitalism for everyone while reducing its cost. Deep Tech is a potent approach to this challenge that enables more for less - now and for this century. The transformative companies in their portfolio combine the latest advances in science and technology with unique computing and algorithmic advantage, reducing CAPEX and OPEX.

DCVC

We are the venture capital arm of the renowned R&D consortium – the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). Since our creation in 1979, we have invested over US$400 million across virtually all stages, sectors, and timezones. Companies we have nurtured have gone on to define entire industries, and boast a combined market cap of well over US$200 billion. Since its inception, ITIC has been instrumental in leading Taiwan's initial ventures into technology-based businesses, such as integrated circuits, automation, opto-electronic display, etc. ITIC is an original shareholder of some industry leaders such as UMC, Taiwan Mask Corp., Acer Display Technologies, Inc.(renamed as AU Optronics Corp.).

ITIC: Industrial Technology Investment Corporation

TDK Corporation provides electronic solutions, meeting their customers' needs through their global network of sales, engineering, and R&D. Their offerings span a wide range of capacitors, inductors, ferrites, power supplies, factory automation systems, and anechoic chambers.

TDK Corporation

Amazon operates a vast online marketplace where customers can purchase a wide variety of products, including electronics, books, apparel, household goods, and more. The company has a robust logistics and delivery network, allowing efficient shipping and on-time delivery to customers.

Amazon

Early Stage VC firm focusing on disruptions in Automotive, Industrial/Manufacturing and Knowledge Services Verticals

MFV Partners

Safar Partners is a seed- to growth-stage venture fund investing primarily in technology companies out of MIT, Harvard, and the University of Rochester. We invest in platform technologies in the cleantech and advanced materials, AI/IT and robotics, and life science/medical device areas.

Safar Partners

TDK Ventures is a technology-focused venture fund based in San Jose, California. We invest globally in Seed to B-round startups that leverage fundamental material science to unlock an attractive and sustainable future for the world. We believe in a sustainable world where digital and energy transformation will improve billions of lives for the better. Our mission is to help accelerate learnings and contributions to society, investing in start-ups with similar idealism. We aim to find meaningful opportunities in early-stage technology, especially in Health & Wellness, next Generation Transportation, Robotics & Industrial, Mixed Reality, and the wider IoT market segments. Dielectrics, magnetics, MEMS, neuro-electricals, organic materials, piezoelectrics, semiconductors, and many other types of materials, TDK Ventures is looking for the hardest problems where we have a proven track record of solving since 1935 and are passionate to continue solving these challenges together with our global innovation partners.

TDK Ventures

Bossa Invest manages investment portfolios and provides asset management services to clients. It analyzes market trends to inform investment decisions. Bossa Invest serves multiple sectors, including finance, technology, and real estate.

Bossa Invest

Agility Robotics

Agility Robotic's legged locomotion expertise is built on a history of academic research, including the bipedal walking and running robot ATRIAS. Agility Robotics is leveraging this work to create products that address the real world needs of rugged, efficient, and highly capable mobility platforms.

Agility Robotics develops a human-sized, bi-pedal robot called “Digit” designed for logistics applications primarily for warehouse automation, with plans to introduce the unit for last-mile delivery applications. It is the only company in the market with a product designed to look and move like a human, using two upper limbs to carry an item while moving around on two legs. The robot uses a head-mounted LiDAR system for its primary navigation and is able to navigate semi-autonomously, carrying weight up to 35 lbs. The robots can charge autonomously by connecting themselves to docking stations when needed and can be deployed without additional retrofitting.

Automation and robotics are finally creating solutions for the complexities of doorstep deliveries.

Last-mile Delivery Automation

Agility Robotics develops a human-sized bi-pedal robot called “Digit” designed for logistics applications including warehouse automation. Its product is designed to look and move like a human, using two upper limbs to carry an item while moving around on two legs. The robot uses a head-mounted LiDAR system for its primary navigation and is able to navigate semi-autonomously, carrying weight up to 35 lbs. The robots can charge autonomously by connecting themselves to docking stations when needed and can be deployed without additional retrofitting. The company’s business model involves the outright sale of units to customers.

AI, robotics, and IoT to streamline the flow of goods and information

Logistics Tech

Agility Robotics is a company that develops and manufactures bipedal robots for industrial and commercial applications. Its flagship product is Digit, a human-sized bipedal robot designed to perform tasks such as moving heavy materials, picking up and putting down objects, and navigating through human-centric environments like warehouses and factories.

Agility Robotics brings bipedal robots to market, gets $150M

Bipedal robot developed at Oregon State achieves Guinness World Record in 100 meters

Agility Robotics lays off some staff amid commercialization focus

Robots: Will they walk among us? | College of Engineering

Agility Robotics names new CEO: Peggy Johnson, former Magic Leap CEO and Microsoft exec

Robot takeover? Agility Robotics to open first-ever factory to mass produce humanoid robots

Revolutionizing efficiency by redefining human interactions

Humanoid Robots

Future of work: 5 things to know about Agility Robotics’ Digit, a humanoid autonomous robot disrupting warehouses

Tompkins Solutions

To integrate Agility Robotics' Digit into Tompkins Solutions' service offerings, enhancing warehouse operations with advanced robotic solutions.

Companies developing automation technology for warehouses like robots (including inventory drones), cobots, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), and related software.

Amazon partnered with Agility Robotics to start testing the latter's bipedal humanoid robot called Digit at Amazon's warehouse facilities. The testing is in very early stages, and the company is evaluating if the robots would be a fit for its processes. The robots will work alongside humans, initially helping employees with tote recycling, picking up and moving empty totes, etc.

Ford Motor

To enhance a last-mile logistics solution that connects Ford’s autonomous vehicle technology and Agility’s bipedal robot Digit.

Refers to autonomous vehicles that use pedestrian walkways and travel a little faster than average walking speed (generally 3-6 miles an hour). These vehicles can usually carry up to around 20 lb. and use a camera, radar, and sensors to move autonomously. 

Ordered two of Agility Robotics' human-sized, bi-pedal robot, "Digit"

To develop Agility Robotics' human-sized, bi-pedal robot, "Digit"

Agility Robotics develops a human-sized, bi-pedal robot called “Digit” designed for logistics applications primarily for warehouse automation, with plans to introduce the unit for last-mile delivery applications. It is the only company in the market with a product designed to look and move like a human, using two upper limbs to carry an item while moving around on two legs. The robot uses a head-mounted LiDAR system for its primary navigation and is able to navigate semi-autonomously, carrying weight up to 35 lbs. The robots can charge autonomously by connecting themselves to docking stations when needed and can be deployed without additional retrofitting.The company unveiled the second generation of Digit <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/17182">in March 2023,</a> with plans to begin shipping to early customers in 2024 and a wider rollout in 2025 (price not disclosed). The company has a <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/21927">manufacturing facility in Oregon</a> with the capacity to produce more than 10,000 robots per year.&nbsp;The company also offers <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27444">“Agility Arc,"</a> which is a cloud automation platform for deploying and managing Digit fleets. This is offered on a SaaS basis.Funding and financials<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/9899">In April 2022,</a> Agility Robotics raised USD 150 million in a Series B funding round led by DCVC and Playground Global to fast-track R&amp;D, ramp up production and delivery of its next-generation robot, and expand the team. In April 2022, Agility Robotics also received an undisclosed amount of funds from the Amazon Industrial Innovation Fund.&nbsp;Key competitors: None comparable (Agility Robotics is the only startup developing a humanoid robot for parcel delivery)

Zing Drone Solutions offers an end-to-end drone delivery platform, which includes autonomous flight software and plug-and-play hardware. Drone pilots can team up with Zing to make deliveries with their own drones, while Zing undertakes the licensing and insuring of pilots. The company also sells two models of FAA-approved broadcast modules to pilots.As of March 2024, the company had operations in a test site in Sarasota, Florida, to demonstrate drone-based deliveries. It was mainly generating revenue through the sale of broadcast modules to pilots.Key customers and partnershipsZing Drone Solutions has product partnerships with companies including 1) software company Airspace Link to integrate airspace awareness technology (December 2021); 2) air traffic navigation service provider Skyway Technologies to install route planning and air navigation solutions for operations in Florida and beyond (January 2022; conducted first flights in Montverde, Florida <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/10175">in May 2022);</a> and 3) Arrive (formerly DroneDek; June 2020) and Valqari (August 2021) to obtain hardware and infrastructure.Funding and financialsZing Drone Solutions generated revenue of USD 40,847 and incurred a loss of USD 160,287 in 2023.

Zing Drone Solutions

DroneUp is a drone startup offering&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/18602">drone-based last-mile delivery services</a> primarily pitched toward retail, food, and medical deliveries. The company's&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/34605">technology package</a> includes a proprietary software solution, an innovative winch system, and custom battery packs. The company has operations in the US (including Arkansas, Texas, Florida, Arizona, Virginia, Utah, and North Carolina) and potentially&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/11637">Europe.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/36763">In December 2024,</a> it obtained approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Part 135 Certification to conduct commercial beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) drone deliveries.DroneUp’s complementary acquisitions in the space include AeroVista Innovations to provide full-service drone training to organizations (April 2020); Web Teks, a UAS software developer that had been a contractor for DroneUp&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/103">(March 2021)</a>; and AirMap, an airspace management software provider for drones&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/7177">(December 2021).</a>&nbsp;Key customers and partnershipsDroneUp has conducted drone-based deliveries in partnership with organizations including <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/10658">Walmart,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/161">NUAIR (Northeast UAS Airspace Integration Research Alliance) and SUNY Upstate Medical University,</a> the City of Ontario and the real estate company <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/4266">Brookfield Properties,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/17938">Riverside Health System,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/19264">Carilion Clinic,</a> and <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/23954">Chick-fil-A</a>.DroneUp also has product partnerships with companies including1) <a href="https://sp-edge.com/companies/865380">A2Z Drone Delivery</a> to integrate the latter’s tethered freefall drone delivery technology into DroneUp’s drones <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/105">(March 2021)</a>2) South Korean company Doosan Mobility Innovation (DMI) to test drones using hydrogen fuel cell technology <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/17671">(April 2023)</a>3) Irsi Automation to integrate airspace awareness tech into its drones <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/18258">(May 2023)</a>4) Wonder Robotics to integrate precision technology for drone-based deliveries <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/18344">(May 2023)</a>5) Blueflite, a drone technology company, to leverage Blueflite’s drones for DroneUp's autonomous ecosystem <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/28155">(April 2024)</a>6) Elsight to obtain drone connectivity solutions <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/33137">(September 2024)</a>

DroneUp

Manna Drone Delivery (Manna) provides drone delivery-as-a-service to restaurant chains, cloud kitchens, and online food delivery platforms. Using custom-developed aerospace-grade drones, it delivers directly from restaurants and centralized kitchens to consumer's homes. Its drones can fly at a speed of 60 mph, delivering within a range of 10 miles. The drones are also equipped with safety systems including a parachute that will automatically deploy and bring the aircraft to the ground in case of an emergency.In May 2021, Manna received the Irish Aviation Authority’s (IAA) <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/62">“Light UAS Operator Certificate” (LUC),</a> available under EU drone regulations and recognized across the EU. With the certification, Manna can self-authorize operations without the need for further approvals. The company also applied for a drone-based delivery services license in the UK <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/22174">in September 2023.</a>The services are offered via Manna’s mobile application, where restaurants can partner and list themselves for drone-based deliveries to their customers. As of March 2024, the company had completed 150,000+ deliveries to customers in Ireland (including Moneygall, Co Offaly, Oranmore, Co Galway, and in Blanchardstown and Balbriggan, Co Dublin) and the US <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/23388">(Dallas, Texas).</a>Key customers and partnershipsIts notable partners include restaurant operators and retailers such as Flipdish, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/91">Just Eat,</a> Tesco, Camile Thai’s, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/106">Samsung Electronics,</a> Coca-Cola, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/23388">Farmhouse Coffee &amp; Treasures, The Touring Chocolatie,</a> and <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27176">Boojum.</a>Funding and financials<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/17122">In March 2023,</a> Manna received an undisclosed amount of funding from Coca-Cola HBC and entered into a strategic partnership with the same to expand its reach to the US market.&nbsp;

Manna Drone Delivery

TwinswHeel is an autonomous delivery droids manufacturer based in France. The company offers six droids under two ranges; 1) “ciTHy” series pitched toward logistics applications for private sites and cities and 2) “facTHory” series pitched toward factories and warehouses. The robots can be configured to either pair up and collaborate with a person and follow them while carrying the loads or to move autonomously in a mapped area. The robots are equipped with LiDAR, six 2D cameras, 3D camera, and sensors for navigation. The ciTHy series comprises the following three sizes that can be used for last-mile delivery applications:1. ciTHy S: Can carry loads of up to 110 lbs, pitched toward personal mobility.2. ciTHy M: Can carry loads of up to 330 lbs; pitched toward technicians and craftsmen to help carry loads.3. ciTHy L: Can carry loads of up to 660 lbs; pitched toward stores in city centers.Key customers and partnershipIn May 2019, the company conducted a trial run in partnership with the French supermarket chain Casino’s Franprix, where shoppers can pair up with the robot, making it follow them while shopping, and even carry items to the customer’s home.The company also manufactures droids on behalf of the autonomous droid operator LMAD (2021).

TwinswHeel

Refers to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that deliver packages. Drones are already in commercial use in many other industries (such as photography, construction, and agriculture). The use of drones for goods delivery has emerged with the gradual advancement of battery and connectivity technologies.

This is a sub-branch of self-driving cars and represents autonomous vehicles that can move along public roads. The technology used is similar to self-driving cars. ADVs have a higher load capacity and travel at a faster speed than vehicles like droids.

Some companies use AI/ML tech for autonomous navigation.  (e.g., Goggo Network, Drone Express, Wayve)"

Autonomous delivery solutions fall under Industry 4.0

The solutions are electric and eco-friendly

All three types of delivery automation facilitate efficient and environmentally friendly solutions

Agility Robotics develops a human-sized bi-pedal robot called “Digit” designed for logistics applications including warehouse automation. Its product is designed to look and move like a human, using two upper limbs to carry an item while moving around on two legs. The robot uses a head-mounted LiDAR system for its primary navigation and is able to navigate semi-autonomously, carrying weight up to 35 lbs. The robots can charge autonomously by connecting themselves to docking stations when needed and can be deployed without additional retrofitting. The company’s business model involves the outright sale of units to customers.The company unveiled the second-generation Digit <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/17182">in March 2023, </a>with plans to begin shipping to early customers in 2024 and a wider rollout in 2025 (price not disclosed). The company has a <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/21927">manufacturing facility in Oregon </a>with the capacity to produce more than 10,000 robots per year.The company also offers <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27444">“Agility Arc," </a>which is a cloud automation platform for deploying and managing Digit fleets. This is offered on a software-as-a-service (SaaS) basis.Key customers and partnershipsAs of January 2020, Agility Robotics has sold its first-generation robot to Ford and several other unnamed Fortune 100 companies for warehouse automation. The company also partnered with Amazon to test Digit units at the latter’s warehousing facilities <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/22840">(October 2023),</a> as well as GXO Logistics to test <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/24716">(December 2023)</a> and subsequently deploy <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/30939">(June 2024)</a> its Digit robots at a facility in Georgia<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/28205">In April 2024,</a> Agility Robotics partnered with Manhattan Associates, a supply chain solutions provider, to offer a joint solution that integrates Digit and Agility Arc with Manhattan's warehouse management solution.&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/29139">In May 2024,</a> the company also added Zion Solutions as a systems integrator to offer its products as a warehouse solution. It partnered with Ricoh USA&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/33374">in September 2024,</a> to expand customer support capabilities in North America, and with Tompkins Solutions&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/35056">in October 2024,</a> to integrate Digit into Tompkins Solutions' service offerings.Key competitors: None comparable (Agility Robotics is the only startup developing humanoid robots for warehouse operations)

<div>
 
 Boxbot develops automated sorting and storage solutions for warehouses. The company, which previously focused on developing autonomous delivery vehicles (ADVs) for 
 <a href="https://sp-edge.com/industry/1">
 last-mile delivery automation,
 </a>
 announced the shift in focus to develop warehouse robots 
 <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/22292">
 in September 2023.
 </a>
 It offers intelligent 3D parcel handling conveyor systems, specifically designed to increase storage density within a smaller footprint. Its platform can store, sort, and sequence high-throughput payloads while requiring minimal physical space. The company claims the system can handle up to 4,000 parcels per hour. The system is powered by &ldquo;Boxbot OS,&rdquo; which provides advanced analytics, systems controls, and predictive maintenance features.
 
 
 Key customers and partnerships
 
 
 Boxbot was in discussions with partners and had identified several sites for testing its warehouse automation technology as of September 2023. The company has conducted pilot tests in various use cases and notes the technology can be deployed at last-mile delivery centers, bonded storage warehouses, and customer pickup locations.
 
 
 Funding and financials
 
 
 <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/22292">
 In September 2023,
 </a>
 Boxbot raised USD 12 million in a Series A funding round led by Playground Global to strengthen its engineering and business operations and accelerate its go-to-market approach.
 
</div>

Boxbot

Based in France, Exotec Solutions (Exotec) develops warehouse automation solutions. Its main offering “Skypod,” is an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) with the ability to prioritize orders by automating the movement of goods from bin storage to workstations. Skypod units are powered by autonomous mobile robot (AMR) technology and have the ability to travel at high speeds and move in 3D environments.Skypod system is supported by Exotec’s end-to-end warehouse software, “Deepsky,” which uses technologies such as Webservices, RESTful API, and nodeRed to control elements of the Skypod system. Exotec can be integrated with warehouse management and warehouse control systems and enables Skypod to be integrated with third-party automation equipment. It also collects real-time data for performance visibility.Exotec’s other warehouse solutions include “Skypicker, ” an automated picking arm that uses machine learning-based vision to pick items from the Skypod robots and place them into fulfillment containers, and “Skypath,” an API-based modular plug-and-play conveyor system. It also builds stations made up of a ramp, a screen, and scanners for smaller warehouse spaces that use Skypod robots.The company offers its products on a robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) basis and has a presence in multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America.Key customers and partnershipsAs of February 2022, Exotec served over 50 companies. Its customers include Decathlon, Carrefour, Cdiscount, Uniqlo, Gap, Monoprix, Logilec,&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/26080">Lane Automotive,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/35243">Auchan Retail Luxembourg,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/36779">BlueStar</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/36913">Hygie31 and Hartmann Group</a>.The company also has partnerships with system integrators such as 1) <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/24045">Bastian Solutions </a>and Advanced Handling Systems (AHS) to deploy Skypod systems in North America for retailers such as Gap, Ariat International, and GEODIS; 2) Korea-based engineering and IT service provider POSCO DX to expand its presence in South Korea. Its other integrator partnerships include Hy-Tek Intralogistics, Bastian Solutions, Klinkhammer Intralogistics, Unitechnik Systems GmbH, A1Sorter, LAC Conveyors &amp; Automation, Dexter Intralogistics, POSCO DX, Okura Yusoki, and IHI.&nbsp;

Exotec 

Berkshire Grey provides AI-powered robotic solutions for ecommerce fulfillment automaton, smart store replenishment, package sortation, and micro-fulfillment solutions, targeting retail, ecommerce, and third-party logistics (3PL). Its product portfolio includes robotic pick-and-pack solutions, robotic induction stations, robotic pick-and-sort solutions, and mobile robotic fulfillment solutions. Berkshire Grey specializes in configuring, installing, commissioning, and servicing these solutions for customers. It also provides additional professional services, such as system maintenance, system operation, and cloud-based monitoring and analytics.The company offers its product with a variety of purchase options, including outright sale and robotics-as-a-service (RaaS), which allows customers to use the offerings without incurring large, up-front capital expenses.Berkshire Grey generated revenue of US 65.9 million in 2022; however, it was yet to turn profitable, as its operating loss amounted to USD 113.8 million. The company has been listed on the Nasdaq since August 2021 via a merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), which valued the combined entity at USD 2.7 billion (February 2021). However, the company entered a definitive merger agreement with its investor SoftBank Group in March 2023, which also took the company private (transaction closed in July 2023).Key customers and partnershipsBerkshire Grey’s customers include Global 100 retailers and logistics service providers, such as Walmart, FedEx, Ceva Logistics, Target, Maersk, and Bealls.The company also has partnerships with system integrator of fulfillment and distribution solutions AHS (September 2021), technology service provider Atos (October 2021), data-driven robotic solutions provider Swisslog (March 2022), autonomous mobile robot developer Locus Robotics (January 2023), and intralogistics solution company Kardex <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/33225">(September 2024)</a> to expand markets by combining technologies.

Berkshire Grey

ShipBob is a cloud-based third-party logistics (3PL) platform that offers a fulfillment order platform for small and medium-sized ecommerce businesses. ShipBob's proprietary technology covers the entire fulfillment process, including order and inventory management, warehouse management, predictive data and analytics, and optimized shipping (package delivery within 1–2 business days) for ecommerce companies. The company operates as a B2B software-as-a-service (SaaS) company.ShipBob operated a network of 50+ fulfillment centers across the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Australia (as of April 2024). These centers serve as storage and distribution hubs for ShipBob's customers. ShipBob also <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/32676">facilitates Section 321-compliant order fulfillment</a> from Canada and Mexico, which allows merchants to reduce paperwork, speed up delivery times, and save on transportation and duties for high-tariff goods shipped to US consumers.The company also provides a merchant application that enables users to monitor inventory levels and facilitates communication with the warehouses for selecting items to fulfill orders and arrange their shipment. ShipBob then integrates with various shipping companies to ensure the delivery of orders to customers.Key customers and partnershipsThe company had 7,000+ customers as of April 2024. Its customers include PetLab, Bloom Nutrition, Storelli, zBiotics, Semaine Health, Postal, Bruce Bolt, Baby Doppler, Earthley, Spikeball, Pit Viper, Oxford Healthspan, RIFRUF, Food Huggers, NutriPaw, FlutterHabit, Quadrant, Juspy, and SuperSpeed Golf.The company has integrations with multiple platforms to ensure a smooth fulfillment process. Such integrations include the following:1) Ecommerce platforms and marketplaces such as Shopify, Amazon, BigCommerce, eBay, Magneto, Squarespace, Walmart, Wix, WooCommerce, Netsuite, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/22208">TikTok Shop,</a> and <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/30330">Adobe Commerce</a> integrations2) Ecommerce operations, inventory, and order management platforms such as Brightpearl, Birj, Cogsy, PackageBee, SPS Commerce, Zentail, Shipyard, Logicbroker, Order Desk, Fulfil.io, and Cin73) Returns management platforms such as HappyReturns, Loop returns, ReturnLogic, and Returnly4) Freight and shipping solutions such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, Flexport, Freightos, Route, Rush, Shippo, ShipStation, Anvyl, AfterShip, and Echo Global LogisticsIts other integrations include ecommerce marketing and customer support providers; custom packaging and design solutions providers; branding, marketing, and web development agencies; and accounting, tax, and financing service providers.

ShipBob

Locus Robotics develops autonomous mobile robots (AMR) for warehousing and manufacturing operations. It offers three main AMR solutions: 1) “Locus Origin,” an AMR designed for collaborative, high-volume order fulfillment; 2) “Locus Vector,” designed to handle small to medium payloads; and 3) “Locus Max,” designed for larger payloads. The AMR solutions are backed by “LocusONE,” a warehouse automation platform that uses AI and data science to deploy and manage the AMRs. LocusONE also generates real-time actionable insights to support operational decisions. The AMRs allow integration with warehouse management systems and warehouse control systems. The company also offers warehouse automation solution “LocusEmpower,” which supports a range of fulfillment types including zone-picking, discrete order picking, batch picking, and wave picking. It also offers <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27481">"LocusHub,"</a> an AI/ML-powered cloud-based business intelligence engine grounded with LocusONE for advanced analytics.The company offers its products on a robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) basis. In April 2024, Locus’s AMRs achieved the landmark of completing more than 3 billion unit picks.In September 2021, Locus Robotics acquired AMR provider Waypoint Robotics, which offers AMRs that are industrial-strength with omnidirectional mobility features, enabling Locus Robotics to gain access to new market segments. Key customers and partnershipsAs of May 2023, the company had deployed its technology at 250+ locations in partnership with 100+ brands. Its global customers include Ceva Logistics, Boots, Cardinal Health, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27443">GEODIS, </a>DHL, DSV, JAS, Ryder, UniPharma, UnitedDrug, Go Retail Group, Bluegrass Supply Chain, FM Logistics, UPS, UPS Healthcare, VF Corporation, <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27275">Booktopia,</a> <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/27659">John Lewis &amp; Partners</a> and ​<a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/33695">​KSP Fulfillment</a>.In <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/30676">June 2024</a>, Locus Robotics entered a strategic partnership with Zion Solutions Group to integrate Locus's robotic solutions with Zion's supply chain solutions.Funding and financialsAs of November 2022, the company reported having USD 100 million+ in contracted recurring revenue.In November 2022, Locus Robotics <a href="https://sp-edge.com/updates/14949?industryIds=6">raised USD 117 million </a>in Series F funding co-led by Goldman Sachs Asset Management and G2 Venture Partners, valuing the company at “close to” USD 2 billion. The funds were to be used to facilitate the company’s continued growth and further expand global operations.

Locus Robotics

Include companies providing automated ecommerce fulfillment, store replenishment, and package sortation solutions.

Companies offering automated vendor evaluation and management, demand forecasting, and inventory management.

Companies that offer warehousing and ecommerce fulfillment with technology developed in-house.

Uses connected devices and sensors to gather information—mainly relevant for the visibility segment

Uses robotics solutions for warehouse operations and fulfillment

Automated fulfilment solutions and warehouse automation broadly fall under industry 4.0

Agility Robotics is a company that develops and manufactures bipedal robots for industrial and commercial applications. Its flagship product is Digit, a human-sized bipedal robot designed to perform tasks such as moving heavy materials, picking up and putting down objects, and navigating through human-centric environments like warehouses and factories.
Digit is built on the principles of the spring-mass model, which replicates the dynamics of animal gaits to achieve efficient and natural bipedal locomotion. The robot's legs are modeled after an ostrich's, with a short thigh segment and long lower legs, enabling it to walk and run with remarkable energy economy. Digit is equipped with sensors and perception systems that allow it to operate autonomously or with human guidance.
Agility Robotics' technology has its roots in research conducted at Oregon State University, where the company was spun out in 2015. The company's early work focused on developing the ATRIAS and Cassie robots, which demonstrated the feasibility of using the spring-mass model for bipedal locomotion. Building on this research, Agility Robotics has commercialized the technology through Digit, which it began mass-producing in 2023.

UBTech Robotics is a Shenzhen-based company that manufactures humanoid robots for various applications. UBTech's product lineup includes educational robots, logistics robots, and intelligent service robots customized for specific industries like manufacturing and healthcare.Their humanoid robots are equipped with capabilities like sensing, voice interaction, navigation, greeting visitors, and performing tasks such as walking and grasping objects. Key products include the Alpha small humanoid launched in 2014, the Walker humanoid service robot introduced in 2018 for general services, and the upgraded Walker X released in 2021.

UBTech Robotics

Figure is a robotics startup founded with the goal of developing the world's first commercially viable general-purpose humanoid robot called Figure 01. The company is led by CEO Brett Adcock and CTO Jerry Pratt, a renowned roboticist who previously worked at the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC).
Figure one is designed to mimic the human form, standing five feet six inches tall, weighing 130 pounds, and capable of lifting up to 44 pounds. It features 41 degrees of freedom, including seven in each arm, six in each leg, and a six degree-of-freedom hand with an opposable thumb. The robot is fully electric, running for five hours on a single charge.
Figure one aims to address labor shortages by assisting human workers in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and retail settings. It leverages advanced AI and machine learning capabilities to perform tasks autonomously, enabling it to navigate complex environments, grasp objects, and manipulate tools. In March 2024, Figure demonstrated the robot handling warehouse tasks such as picking up bins and placing them on a conveyor belt.
Key customers and partnerships
In January 2024, Figure announced a commercial agreement with BMW to deploy its robots on the automaker's production lines.
Figure has also entered a collaboration with OpenAI to develop next-generation AI models specifically for humanoid robots. This partnership aims to enhance Figure 01's ability to process and reason from language, accelerating its commercial deployment timeline.

Figure

Agile Robots AG is a robotics company founded as a spin-off from the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The company's mission is to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics by developing systems that combine state-of-the-art force-moment sensing and world-leading image processing technology. This unique combination enables Agile Robots to provide intelligent, user-friendly, and affordable robotic solutions that facilitate safe human-robot interaction.
Agile Robots offers a range of robotic arms for industrial applications as well as research and educational purposes. Their product portfolio includes industrial robot arms, collaborative robot (cobot) arms, robotic software, an anthropomorphic robotic hand, and an educational platform called Aini that teaches foundational concepts in logic, computer science, mathematics, and physics by enabling students aged eight to 15 to program and operate robots.
In November 2023, Agile Robots acquired Franka Emika GmbH, a German robotics company known for its Panda collaborative robot arm. The acquisition, valued at over 30 million euros, allowed Agile Robots to expand its operations, retain Franka Emika's 100-person workforce, and strengthen its position in the robotics industry.
As of November 2022, Agile Robots had over 1,000 employees worldwide. The company established a production facility in Kaufbeuren, Germany, with plans to hire an additional 60 employees and manufacture 2,500 robots per year within a few years.
Key customers and partnerships
In October 2023, Agile Robots gained idealworks, a subsidiary of the BMW Group focused on industrial automation, as a majority shareholder through a Series A financing round. This strategic partnership enables the joint development of new solutions and technologies, as well as access to further branches and markets. Agile Robots and idealworks complement each other in their industry expertise and range of solutions, with idealworks bringing in the BMW Group as one of its largest customers and its industrial know-how.

Agile Robots

SoftBank Robotics is a leading provider of robotic solutions for various industries, including food service, cleaning, and logistics. The company's core offerings include autonomous cleaning robots like the Whiz series and Scrubber 50 Pro, tray delivery robots such as Servi, Keenbot T5, and Delivery X1, as well as logistics automation solutions leveraging technologies like AutoStore's high-density automated warehousing system.
SoftBank Robotics' cleaning robots, powered by artificial intelligence, can efficiently clean and disinfect floors while detecting and removing stains. The tray delivery robots are designed to optimize operations in the food service industry, reducing staff workload by autonomously transporting food and drinks between tables and the kitchen. The company's logistics solutions aim to optimize warehouse operations by maximizing space utilization and enabling efficient storage and retrieval of goods.

SoftBank Robotics

Companies that develop full humanoid robots for research and education purposes in various fields such as science, technology, and academia

Companies that develop full humanoid robots for personal support and caregiving to assist individuals in their homes with tasks like cleaning, cooking, and providing companionship; includes applications in the medical and healthcare industry, such as assisting with surgeries, rehabilitation, or acting as companions for patients

Companies that develop full humanoid robots for entertainment purposes and social interaction. They can be used in public spaces, events, or as personal companions

Companies that develop full humanoid robots for commercial services across various industries such as retail, hospitality, and customer service

Companies that develop full humanoid robots for industrial and manufacturing settings to perform tasks such as assembly, material handling, and quality control

Companies that develop software and hardware that enable humanoid robot technology (e.g., sensors, grippers, cognitive architecture, robotic applications/software, etc.)

Uses IoT, AI/ML, and robotics to mimic human actions, kinesthetics, and mental state

Most of the companies in the industry use robotics technology to develop humanoid robots

ANALYST_QUICK_TAKE

INCUMBENTS_PRESENT

<div>
 The maker of bipedal robots, Agility Robotics, has bagged a minority investment from the motion technology firm, Schaeffler Group, the value of which has not been disclosed.
 In addition, Schaeffler is strategising to incorporate Agility's humanoid robots across its comprehensive network of 100 manufacturing plants situated globally by the year 2030.
</div> Analyst QuickTake: 
 This partnership follows Agility's recent partnership with <a href="https: 
//sp-edge.com/updates/30939"> GXO Logistics </a> for the commercial deployment of humanoid robots, which reportedly is the industry’s first commercial deployment.

Agility Robotics

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