ability to handle multiple robots at once. Abbee’s approach was to design a system that could be expanded as needed, with the flexibility to adapt to various environments.
Michael revealed: “When you’re cleaning large office buildings or hotels, you need robots that can get around freely without getting stuck on cables or obstacles. That’s where our design makes a real difference. We’ve redesigned our robots to be more adaptable so they can navigate the kinds of environments that domestic robots simply can’t.”
The company also faced the issue of charging multiple robots simultaneously. Unlike domestic robots, which typically operate in one-off situations, commercial businesses need to have several robots running at once. The Hive system solves that problem by allowing the robots to be charged from a single source, reducing operational downtime.
Michael continued: “It’s about creating an ecosystem that works together. Aside from our Hive system, we’re getting ready to introduce our Colony Controller, which is a tablet that will manage fleets of robots. These have all been designed to ensure that commercial businesses can scale their operations efficiently.”
Scaling internationally
As well as its Colony Controller, the company is building up its product range, with a floor cleaning robot that combines mopping and vacuuming. Over the coming 12 months, Abbee also plans to launch a window cleaning robot, a product that has huge potential, especially in airports and high-rise buildings.
Abbee is also expanding internationally – with clients spanning as far north as Aberdeen and as far south as Madrid – with a particular focus on European markets.
Michael said: “The demand for our robots is growing, and we’re excited about the future. We’re already seeing huge interest, and our new products will open up even more opportunities in the commercial cleaning sector.”
www.tomorrowscleaning.com
Invoice finance: supporting fast-
moving growth As the business grew, Abbee faced the challenge of maintaining cashflow while expanding rapidly. The company started using Optimum Finance in 2019, well before its rebrand, and it has since become an integral part of the company’s growth strategy.
Michael explained: “Invoice finance has been a lifesaver for us. As a growing business, cashflow is everything. Optimum Finance allows us to access the capital we need as soon as we issue an invoice, which gives us the flexibility to reinvest in our business without waiting for extended payment terms.”
The company also uses invoice discounting, which allows them to access funds quickly, ensuring they have the capital to meet increasing demand. Michael continued: “The invoice discounting model has worked perfectly for us. We don’t have to wait 30, 60 or 90 days for payments – we get paid immediately, and that helps us stay ahead of the curve.”
Abbee’s relationship with Optimum Finance goes beyond just securing funds, as it’s a partnership that has helped Abbee navigate some of the complexities of growing a fast- moving business. From managing international transactions to finding flexible financial solutions, Optimum has ‘gone above and beyond to understand our business’, according to Michael. He added: “They’re not just about numbers: they understand our vision, our customers and our industry. That’s made a huge difference as we’ve scaled.
“As a company, we’re just getting started. We’ve got so many plans in the works, and we’re looking forward to seeing where this journey takes us. With the support of Optimum Finance and our dedicated team, the future is incredibly bright.”
www.tplc.uk www.optimumfinance.co.uk
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