Mitie Introduces 32 Automated Cobots at Heathrow Airport

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20 August 2025

Mitie has rolled out the UK’s largest fleet of cobotic cleaning machines at Heathrow airport.

32 cobots in a range of sizes have been deployed to mop and polish the airport floors, using sensors to avoid passengers and obstacles. The machines clean an area of 4,800m every day, around the size of eight football pitches. 

The cobots automatically return to their docking stations after three hours to recharge. Each robot requires just 18 litres of water a day. 

“It’s not just their sustainable credentials that are proving popular. The cobots have quickly established themselves as a favourite with families – with the machines providing an entertaining distraction to young travellers during the check-in process.” said Heather Downes, Head of Innovation and Production Development at Mitie

Mitie says that the cobotic machines allow their 850 cleaning and hygiene operatives to deliver more specialist, deep cleaning tasks. The outsourcing company has introduced cleaning cobots at client sites at King’s Cross, Waterloo, London Bridge and Liverpool Street. 

The global cobot market was valued at $4.27 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $50.76 billion by 2032.

Theo Baldwin-Evans, Soft Services and Hygiene Manager, Heathrow, said: “Combining cutting-edge technology with excellent hygiene services, we are pleased to welcome the newest members of Mitie’s cobot fleet, which are already very popular with passengers and colleagues alike.” 

Picture: a photograph of one of the cobots in situ at Heathrow airport. The image has been taken in one of the arrivals buildings, showing people standing with their luggage in the background. Image Credit: Mitie

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 20 August 2025

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