Chinese Robots Boost UK Retail Industry as Automation Industry Grows

Chinese robot maker Geek+ is helping change the way many UK stores fill online orders. Big retailers like Tesco, Asda and Next now use the company's robots in their warehouses.

The small robots move under shelves, lift them and carry them to workers. This helps workers pick orders faster and with fewer mistakes. The robots also help stores keep more goods in the same space.

Geek+ says its robots are easy to set up. They use simple floor marks instead of large conveyor systems. This makes it easier for companies to add automation to their warehouses.

Britain has become Geek+'s biggest market in Europe. More than 2,000 of its robots are now working at 10 warehouse sites across the UK. Many businesses are using the robots because they need faster service and have fewer workers to fill jobs.

Experts say the UK needs more robots to improve work speed and help businesses grow. The OECD has also said that more use of robotics could help the country improve productivity.

Worker groups say robots should help people, not replace them. They want workers to be part of plans for new technology and ask companies to offer training for new skills.

Geek+ is now working on new tools that could one day help run whole warehouses with very little human work. The company believes automation will play a bigger role in the future of retail and shipping.