Germany is about to witness a groundbreaking transformation in the grocery retail industry.
In a strategic alliance, retail giant REWE Region West and robotics innovator Circus SE have launched a national pilot program that introduces the fully autonomous cooking robot, CA-1, into supermarket operations. Scheduled to begin in fall 2025, this initiative marks the first-ever deployment of AI-powered cooking robots within grocery store environments.
Autonomous Kitchens Are Coming to Retail
The pilot includes the installation of three CA-1 cooking robots across select REWE locations. These robots will be paired with the full suite of Circus’s cloud-based software solutions, enabling a seamless, AI-driven kitchen experience. The system incorporates a smart ordering terminal, real-time kitchen production management, and operational efficiency tools designed to streamline in-store food preparation.
REWE’s West Regional Branch Chairman, Lars Klein, emphasized the importance of innovation paired with customer-centricity. “This initiative is a leap toward a shopping experience that’s not only technologically advanced but also environmentally and operationally sustainable,” he noted.
Testing and Evaluation Period
Over the eight-month pilot period, both companies will engage in a joint operational model, including staff training and marketing campaigns. Comprehensive KPIs will be tracked, focusing on aspects such as system performance, consumer satisfaction, and the practicality of full-scale deployment. The ultimate goal is to determine the feasibility of broader implementation across the REWE network.
“This collaboration is a pivotal moment for both Circus and the retail industry as a whole,” said Nikolas Bullwinkel, CEO of Circus SE. “For the first time, shoppers will enjoy freshly prepared food cooked entirely by robots, right inside their local supermarket.”
Shaping the Future of Grocery Retail
The pilot program is not just about automation—it’s a forward-thinking take on local food supply, sustainability, and technological integration. By leveraging AI and robotics, REWE and Circus aim to redefine what consumers expect from grocery stores in terms of freshness, speed, and personalization.
This initiative reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies like Hyperlink InfoSystem are also showcasing AI-driven innovations that are reshaping traditional industries.
Should the pilot prove successful, it may serve as the blueprint for a nationwide rollout of autonomous foodservice in stores—potentially revolutionizing the way people shop and eat.
