US grocery chain SpartanNash plans to implement Simbe’s Tally autonomous inventory robots in 60 stores across the midwest following a pilot in 15 stores.

“We first piloted Tally in 15 stores, and the success of that launch motivated us to expand Tally across more locations to help associates save time in inventory tracking and spend more time on the floor serving our store guests,” said SpartanNash executive vice president Tom Swanson. “The real-time data intelligence Tally provides helps ensure our store guests’ favourite items always stay fresh, are adequately stocked and priced competitively, helping us deliver the ingredients for a better life.”

Simbe’s Store Intelligence platform informs product stocking, ordering, merchandising and ecommerce fulfilment with real-time inventory insights across every store area. This data precision empowers staff to ensure items are available for shoppers with accurate location and price, while freeing up their time for more engaging, customer-facing work. This follows investment in other food technologies such as Upshop Magic and Flashfood.

“We’re always impressed with how SpartanNash embraces innovative technologies,” said Brad Bogolea, CEO of California-based Simbe. “In retail’s fast-paced environment, every data point matters. The expansion is a testament to their relentless focus on strengthening operations, supporting associates and delivering an optimal shopping experience. Working with the SpartanNash team is incredibly rewarding, and we can’t wait to see the partnership grow from here.”

SpartanNash (www.spartannash.com) operates two complementary business segments – food wholesale and grocery retail. Its global supply chain network serves wholesale customers that include independent and chain grocers, national retail brands, ecommerce platforms, and US military commissaries and exchanges. The company distributes products for every aisle in the grocery store, from fresh produce to household goods to its own brands. On the retail side, SpartanNash operates 144 brick-and-mortar grocery stores, primarily under the banners of Family Fare, Martin’s Super Markets and D&W Fresh Market, in addition to dozens of pharmacies and fuel centres.

Simbe (www.simberobotics.com) provides visibility and real-time insights to increase retailer performance. It combines AI and robotics to power business-critical intelligence that improves inventory management and streamlines operations, while empowering retailers to support staff and elevate shoppers’ experience. Simbe works with brands across the USA, Europe and Asia.