This article is part of the results of The Biggest Fleet 2024. Click here for all results

The development of cleaning robotics has varied worldwide in recent years, shaped by the specific requirements of regional markets. Our ranking of fleet operators also shows that the markets in North America, Europe, and Asia sometimes differ significantly in their use of robotics. We shed light on the challenges and opportunities this presents for fleet operators and the long-term implications these differences have for the industry.

North America: large machines for large areas

In North America, large-scale retail formats such as supermarkets and malls dominate. These require cleaning robots specialized for large, often stony, floor areas. Autonomous ride-on machines, such as those resulting from the collaboration between Braincorp and Tennant, are prototypical here. The demands on the machines are high: they must combine robust performance and ease of use, as they are often used in commercial suburban environments.

Europe: segmented demands

Europe shows a broader segmentation of markets. Medium-sized retail spaces and office buildings dominate continental Europe, while the hotel industry particularly characterizes the UK. Scrubber driers are often used for medium-sized retail spaces, while carpet cleaning and wet vacuuming are particularly in demand for office cleaning. In the UK hotel industry, on the other hand, the “drop-and-go” approach is becoming more prevalent: simple, cost-efficient microbots to support cleaning staff.

Asia: a growing, diversified market

Asia, especially China, is known for its innovative strength in delivery robotics. On the other hand, cleaning robots still have potential for growth here, particularly in emerging markets such as small convenience stores or airports.

In Southeast Asia, with countries such as Singapore and Thailand, government subsidies promote robotics, which suggests that we can expect dynamic development in hospitality and small-scale retail.

Challenges for fleet operators

1. Process requirements and technical diversity
The different market requirements demand a wide range of skills and strategies from fleet operators. While the processes for large-area cleaning machines in North America need to be established, smaller devices in Europe or Asia require less technical but more logistics-oriented management. Fleet managers have to adapt their processes to master the complexity of different robotic solutions

2. Scalability and market diversity
One key challenge is whether fleet operators can operate globally or are limited to regional markets. Differences in cleaning requirements, cultural acceptance, and business models make a uniform strategy difficult. Regions with clear focal points, such as the UK, with its labor-related focus on the hotel industry, could rely more heavily on local providers. At the same time, in other regions, concentrating on large manufacturers could make fleet operators more scalable in the long term

3. Partnerships are key
Local players play a crucial role in the successful operation of fleets. They provide market knowledge, which is essential for selecting and implementing the right robots and the logistical infrastructure for maintenance and operation. Access to experienced partners is a competitive advantage, especially in regions with complex or heterogeneous markets.