In a strategic move showcasing their commitment to the future of AI and robotics, LG Electronics is significantly increasing its investment in the California-based startup, Bear Robotics, known for developing AI-powered server robots specialized for the restaurant industry. By acquiring an additional 30% stake, LG now holds a majority ownership of 51%, making Bear Robotics a subsidiary. Also, a Korean source suggests that the value of this stake is around $180 million, valuing Bear Robotics at approximately $600 million, although the final figure will be made public once the deal closes.
Enhancing Capabilities
Integration with LG CLOi Robots
Bear Robotics, recognized for its advanced AI technology managing fleets of robots remotely, will integrate its capabilities with LG’s existing commercial robot unit. This merger is expected to boost LG’s prominence in developing the “LG CLOi Robots,” enhancing both its home and industrial robot divisions. The integration of Bear’s sophisticated AI systems promises to augment LG’s robotics software potential, a vital leap forward as the industry increasingly relies on AI-driven solutions.
The potential synergy between Bear’s technology and LG’s established expertise is vast. LG’s commercial robot unit, known for its autonomous solutions, aims to embed Bear’s AI capabilities into its existing systems. The combined force of these technologies will create more efficient robots, capable of performing a wide range of tasks autonomously and intelligently. As AI becomes a cornerstone in the development of robotics, this investment positions LG at the forefront of the industry’s future.
Strengthening Software Potential
LG’s initiative to strengthen its robotics software potential comes at a crucial moment as AI technology continues to evolve. The integration of Bear Robotics’ fleet management capabilities will be particularly beneficial in refining and advancing LG’s software offerings. Anticipating a future where robots will be pivotal in various sectors, LG’s investment underscores its foresight and preparedness for coming changes in the industry.
This move is not LG’s first engagement with Bear Robotics, building on an initial investment of $60 million in March 2024, which had already established LG as the startup’s largest shareholder. In a fiercely competitive market, this increased stake not only consolidates LG’s leadership but also propels its technological advancements in robotics. By synthesizing with Bear’s innovative solutions, LG aims to harness the full potential of AI robotics, transforming its operational capabilities across the board.
Strategic Bet on Future Growth
Leadership and Management Continuation
Underlining LG’s strategic bet on future growth in robotics, Bear’s founder, John Ha, along with his management team, will remain in their roles. Their continued leadership ensures that the innovative spirit and direction of Bear Robotics will be preserved, even as it becomes a subsidiary of LG. John Ha, a former Google engineer and restaurateur, established Bear Robotics in 2017 with a vision to solve operational challenges in restaurants through the introduction of serving robots.
The collaboration between Ha’s team and LG’s robotics unit presents an opportunity to combine the creative ingenuity of a startup with the mighty resources of an established technology giant. This partnership is poised to propel forward the development of advanced robotic solutions tailored for the food service industry and beyond, setting new standards for efficiency and innovation.
Expanding Global Reach
Bear Robotics has already made significant strides, operating its robots across the U.S., South Korea, and Japan, primarily in food delivery settings. LG’s acquisition and integration plans will likely accelerate global expansion, bringing advanced server robots to more countries and industries. The partnership could open new markets and applications for LG’s robotics, reinforcing its commitment to making robots a central growth engine in commercial, industrial, and home sectors.
LG’s Chief Strategy Officer, Lee Sam-soo, reiterated this commitment, emphasizing the company’s focus on innovation and growth within the robotics field. The recent highlights at CES 2025 also underscored the expanding role of robotics across various domains, with LG CEO William Cho remarking on the potential of robotics to extend beyond current applications in hospitality and logistics. This strategic move aligns with LG’s vision of creating a more efficient, AI-driven future.
Paving the Path Forward
Building on Historical Success
LG’s involvement in robotics dates back over a decade, marked by significant developments in both robot software and hardware. Notably, LG introduced guide robots at Incheon International Airport in 2017, showcasing their capability to navigate public spaces autonomously. Additionally, LG’s home robotics division is on the verge of releasing a new self-driving AI home hub, known as Q9, which integrates voice and image recognition through Microsoft’s technology.
Such initiatives underscore LG’s longstanding commitment and ongoing advancements in the robotics sector. The merger with Bear Robotics is a natural extension of this trajectory, combining historical success with new, innovative solutions. As LG continues to evolve, it is clear that their investment strategy is designed to keep them at the forefront of robotics technology, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Future Innovations
In a strategic decision demonstrating their dedication to advancing AI and robotics, LG Electronics is boosting its investment in Bear Robotics, a California-based startup renowned for creating AI-driven server robots tailored for the restaurant industry. By purchasing an additional 30% stake, LG now owns 51% of Bear Robotics, transforming it into a subsidiary. A Korean source estimates the value of this newly acquired stake to be around $180 million, thus valuing Bear Robotics at roughly $600 million. While the exact final amount will be officially disclosed when the deal is finalized, this significant investment underscores LG’s commitment to leading innovation in the rapidly evolving field of AI technology. Bear Robotics has been making significant strides with their AI-powered robotic servers, which are becoming increasingly popular in restaurants for their efficiency and reliability. This move by LG reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where major companies are investing heavily in AI to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.