Tennant and Brain Corp Forge Exclusive Deal to Boost Robotic Floor Cleaning Tech

Tennant Company, renowned for its expertise in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of cleaning solutions, alongside Brain Corp, an eminent autonomous technology firm specialising in robotics and AI, have jointly announced an exclusive technology agreement aimed at propelling the development and adoption of advanced robotic solutions in the floor cleaning sector.

This pivotal agreement builds upon the previously fruitful partnership between the two entities and aims to hasten innovation. Tennant and Brain Corp contribute complementary strengths to this alliance, fostering an outstanding support ecosystem for customers. With over 150 years of history in crafting top-tier cleaning equipment and an extensive direct sales and service network, Tennant stands out. Meanwhile, Brain Corp brings to the table its premier AI-enabled Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) cleaning technology, evidenced by more than 6,500 Tennant cleaning robots in operation, powered by Brain's technology. The collaboration anticipates that Tennant’s bespoke robotic equipment, driven by Brain Corp’s advanced and AI-enabled autonomous navigation technology, will enhance customer investment returns and broaden the accessibility of robotic cleaning solutions.

“Our customers have always relied on Tennant for equipment innovation and aftermarket support to address key business challenges such as labour shortages and cost pressures,” said Tennant Company President and CEO Dave Huml. “Our partnership with Brain Corp has already produced an industry-leading portfolio of autonomous equipment in this fast-growing space. We are excited to expand our existing partnership to dramatically accelerate the transition to robotic cleaning and drive adoption in new segments of our markets. By combining cleaning intelligence and automation, we are poised to lead the disruption that AI-enabled robotic technology will bring to our industry.”

In the second quarter of 2024, Tennant is set to introduce the X4 ROVR, the company's inaugural purpose-built Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR). This robot, designed for enhanced manoeuvrability and optimal performance in compact spaces, incorporates Brain Corp’s cutting-edge navigation software and hardware suite, an offering that will be exclusive to Tennant machines for floorcare tasks. The X4 ROVR's smaller footprint, advanced obstacle detection, and superior mobility are expected to minimise the need for manual assistance and significantly improve customer return on investment (ROI). The launch of the X4 ROVR is anticipated to boost robotic cleaning adoption, offering an accessible entry point for customers previously unable to integrate robotic technology. This model marks the beginning of a series of AMR cleaning products, powered by Brain Corp’s advanced technology, which will be exclusively available on Tennant equipment. Through this agreement, the aim is to expedite the development of a range of robotic floor cleaning solutions that will extend across various cleaning applications and further increase customers’ ROI, thereby encouraging wider adoption.

Tennant and Brain Corp combine their strengths in this partnership to foster a rapid increase in the uptake of robotic cleaning technologies. Tennant brings to the table over 150 years of excellence in creating superior cleaning equipment, a robust market strategy, and a unique customer support ecosystem. Brain Corp contributes its top-tier, AI-enabled AMR cleaning technology, already implemented in over 6,500 Tennant cleaning robots powered by Brain OS.

With the advent of the X4 ROVR, Tennant will begin to offer a comprehensive AMR solution that combines both the equipment and autonomy services into a single package sold by Tennant. This innovative approach aims to streamline the purchasing process for customers while enabling Tennant to generate recurring revenue from autonomy services in the future. “This partnership further aligns two companies driven by a shared purpose: to elevate productivity and efficiency, and provide essential support for janitorial teams facing understaffing and overwhelming demand,” said Brain Corp CEO David Pinn. “At Brain Corp, we envision a world where people’s lives are made safer, easier, more productive, and more fulfilling with the help of robots, and I believe this expanded partnership will supercharge this into reality.”

“Innovation and customer focus are a significant part of Tennant’s identity,” said Huml. “This partnership amplifies our commitment to innovation as well as Brain Corp’s position as a pioneer in AI and automation applied to cleaning equipment. We are excited to unlock the full potential of next-generation robotic floor cleaning solutions that deliver true business value to customers who use our AMR equipment today, and those who are waiting eagerly for an AMR solution that they can leverage for their businesses.”

With this agreement, Tennant invested $32 million in Brain Corp and Fay West, Tennant Company Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will join the Brain Corp board of directors.