Theker raises $85M for adaptable factory robots

Theker, an AI robotics startup, has secured $85 million in Series A funding to develop versatile factory robots that can adapt to a wide range of tasks. Unlike specialized robots, Theker's machines are designed to be reconfigurable, with interchangeable hands, arms, and adjustable form factors to suit different applications such as package sorting, clothing packing, or handling bottles in warehouses.

The company's ambition extends beyond retail, aiming for heavier industrial manufacturing settings. Inditex, the parent company of Zara, is an early backer, signaling the startup's potential. The funding round, described as Europe's largest ever for robotics, was led by American VC firm CRV and included strategic investors like Samsung and Aglaé Ventures.

Co-founder Carla Gómez Cano stated that Theker aims to bypass traditional innovation departments and work directly with logistics and operations teams for shorter deal timelines. The startup plans to expand its headcount significantly, open new showrooms across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, and grow its sales force. Theker's success in raising double its target reinforces its commitment to its Barcelona headquarters and the broader European tech ecosystem.