Kaufland tests cleaning robots: Focus on cleanliness after hygiene scandal!

Kaufland tests cleaning robots: Focus on cleanliness after hygiene scandal!

In the last few weeks, Kaufland, the well-known discount chain based in Neckarsulm, has taken an exciting step. The branches in Cologne, Nürtingen, Hechingen, Heidelberg-Rohrbach and Eberbach are testing the use of autonomous cleaning robots. These smart helpers are intended to support the cleaning staff and carry out routine tasks efficiently. The test covers both the early morning hours before the opening and times during ongoing operations in order to obtain a comprehensive picture of the cleaning quality, as SWR describes in detail.

The cleaning robots are equipped with advanced sensors that allow them to detect obstacles and adjust their routes accordingly. In Heilbronn, for example, the robots only work at night in order to be able to do their work efficiently without being disturbed by customer traffic. They also have to meet technical requirements such as communication with the intruder alarm system and automatic gates.

After the hygiene scandal: Building trust with technology

This approach is no coincidence. After a hygiene scandal in spring 2025, in which serious deficiencies were uncovered through undercover research by the magazine “Stern” and RTL, Kaufland is forced to take measures to improve cleanliness and hygiene. As a result, several branch management teams were replaced in order to bring a breath of fresh air into the companies, reports Spiegel.

In order to regain customer trust, Kaufland commissioned TÜV Süd to carry out unannounced inspections of all branches. Stores that pass these controls receive a TÜV certificate for store quality. This is intended to ensure that cleanliness and hygiene are permanently maintained at a high level.

The advantages of automated cleaning

The introduction of cleaning robots also reflects a general trend towards automation in supermarkets and shopping centers. As autorobotics.io explains, the use of these technologies not only increases efficiency, but also improves hygiene and reduces operating costs. The robots take on repetitive cleaning tasks, which relieves employees and allows them to concentrate on presenting products and serving customers.

• Effizienzsteigerung
• Verbesserte Hygiene
• Kostensenkung

The long-term use of cleaning robots could not only increase customer satisfaction, but also increase the length of time customers spend in the store. After all, a clean store is a crucial factor for a positive shopping experience for most customers.

It will be exciting to see how the tests of the cleaning robots in Cologne and other cities develop and whether they can help regain customers' lost trust.