Humanoid robots just got another real job.This time, they are clocking in behind the scenes at a major retail operation.
Figure AI has signed a commercial agreement with Catalyst Brands.That is the company behind JCPenney, Aéropostale, Brooks Brothers, Eddie Bauer, Lucky Brand and Nautica.The first rollout begins at Catalyst's Reno, Nevada Distribution Logistics Center.
So, no, these robots are not greeting shoppers or folding jeans in the store aisle.At least not yet.For now, they are heading into warehouse and supply chain work.
Still, the announcement has some people worried.Many see humanoid robots entering a workplace and immediately wonder what happens to human jobs.
That concern is fair.THE AI-POWERED ROBOT ARMY THAT PACKS YOUR GROCERIES IN MINUTESFigure’s humanoid robots are starting behind the scenes in Catalyst Brands’ Reno warehouse, not on the store floor.(Figure AI)Catalyst Brands says Figure's humanoid robots will help with supply chain work.
The companies say the robots will focus on repetitive, physically demanding sorting and packing tasks.In other words, this starts with warehouse work that can wear people down over time.
The robots will first assist with Catalyst's Joey Pouch sorting system in Reno.That system helps with computerized induction, sorting and packing inside the facility.
Catalyst says the Reno site also underwent a $40 million infrastructure update in 2024."As we invest in and scale our portfolio, this collaboration with Figure shows how emerging technologies can modernize our operations while strengthening our workforce," said Marc Rosen, CEO of Catalyst Brands."When we automate routine tasks, our associates can focus on higher-value work and better serve our customers across all our brands."So, this is happening behind the scenes in the warehouse, not on the store floor.
That detail is important, especially because some online reactions made it sound like robots were already headed into retail stores.The announcement ...