Electric Sheep Robotics has officially launched as an autonomy partner for the landscaping industry, introducing its Dexter robotic system that transforms commercial mowers into self-driving machines. The San Francisco-based startup aims to solve chronic labor shortages that have plagued the industry for decades, particularly in lawn maintenance which accounts for over 50% of landscape work.
Turning Existing Equipment Autonomous
The company’s innovative clamp-on hardware and software solution works with both gas and electric commercial mowers already in use across the industry. Through a Robots-as-a-Service model, landscapers can adopt the technology without upfront costs, potentially saving thousands of dollars in labor expenses while reallocating workers to more skilled tasks.
Industry Embraces Robotic Solution
“We desperately need autonomous solutions in this tight labor market,” said Zech Strauser, owner of Strauser Nature’s Helpers, an early adopter. The technology allows landscaping businesses to maintain operations despite workforce challenges while improving employee satisfaction by eliminating the most grueling mowing tasks.
Founders Combine Technical and Industry Expertise
Founded in 2019 by a team with engineering, entrepreneurship and landscaping backgrounds, Electric Sheep has developed a solution tailored to the industry’s specific needs. The Dexter system leverages existing mower fleets rather than requiring expensive new equipment, making adoption more accessible for small and mid-sized landscaping businesses.
Overwhelming Market Response
“We’ve been inundated with interest from the industry,” said CEO Nag Murty, noting that current customer demand alone could generate hundreds of millions in annual revenue within years. The strong response underscores the acute need for automation in an industry where labor shortages have constrained growth and profitability for years.
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