Lowe’s is testing whether robots can improve its customer service, like helping a shopper find something as simple as a nail.
Four robots are being tested at an Orchard Supply Hardware store owned by Lowe’s Companies Inc. in San Jose, Calif.
The robots, dubbed OSHbots, look like white columns with two large black screens on either side, and wheels. Customers can research items they want to buy on their screen. Then the robot can lead them to the aisle where an item is.
“They’re based on making a science fiction story a reality,” said Kyle Nel, executive director of Lowe’s Innovation Lab.
The robots have a database of what inventory is at the store.
“People can come in with a random screw and say Mr. Robot, I need more of these, and if we do have it in the store, they can find it,” Nel said.
