Hong Kong to Launch 24/7 Store Featuring Humanoid Robot Sales Assistant

• June 17, 2026

Hong Kong is preparing to open a small, fully automated retail outlet that will operate 24 hours a day with assistance from a humanoid robot named Xiao Gai (G1). Developed by Chinese tech company Galbot, this robot is designed to interact with customers and streamline in-store operations.

Robotic Assistance for Continuous Retail Operations

Xiao Gai is engineered to offer precise order fulfillment and delivery, serving as a key component of the store’s operational model. Beyond customer interaction, the robot is also responsible for managing inventory automatically around the clock, ensuring shelves are replenished efficiently and the shopping experience remains uninterrupted.

The integration of Xiao Gai aims to minimize the need for human staff by automating tasks that include stock monitoring and restocking. This technology highlights an emerging trend in retail where robotic automation enhances both customer service and backend logistics.

While details regarding the store’s exact location and opening timeline have been shared, specific information about its product range, pricing, and broader rollout plans remains limited. Galbot has emphasized the robot’s capabilities in maintaining a seamless shopping process through continuous inventory management and customer assistance.

The use of humanoid robots in retail reflects a growing interest in AI-driven automation across physical stores, addressing challenges like labor shortages and demand for extended shopping hours. Xiao Gai’s deployment in this Hong Kong outlet represents a notable case study in how robotics are being integrated into real-world commercial environments.

As retail businesses explore the benefits of AI and robotics, this initiative may provide insights into the operational efficiencies possible with such technology. The Xiao Gai project illustrates the potential for humanoid robots not only to serve customers directly but also to handle backend tasks that contribute to smoother daily operations.

Overall, the launch of this 24/7 store with a humanoid robot assistant marks a step forward in automated retail, blending innovative robot design with practical applications for continuous service and inventory control.

A new round-the-clock store in Hong Kong will utilize the humanoid robot Xiao Gai for automated customer service and inventory management.