OVC's humanoid robot 7S store becomes new hotspot

China's first humanoid robot 7S store in Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China, or OVC) has welcomed approximately 18,000 visitors since its opening nearly two months ago, quickly becoming a popular attraction in Wuhan that draws locals and tourists to explore robots and AI innovations up close.

The humanoid robot 7S store is crowded with visitors. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The store, which serves an educational purpose, is also pioneering new business models for commercial profitability. According to Hu Longdan, the store manager, the 7S store offers a range of experiences and products, from a 19.9 yuan ($3.00) mech battle experience to high-end humanoid robots priced at 700,000 yuan. To date, the store has generated nearly 615,000 yuan in revenue from experiential consumption, sales, and robot rentals.

"We are bringing technological breakthroughs from the lab to bustling commercial areas," said Li Zhengxiang, chairman of the Hubei Humanoid Robot Innovation Center. "Through the 7S store, we aim to connect technological and industrial innovation, enhancing public awareness and expectations for the future of AI products, especially robots."

The store's humanoid robot attracts a large crowd. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The 7S store plans to continually innovate its displays, enhance sales functions, and expand rental services in 2026, enriching local offerings of humanoid robots, AI products, 3D printing equipment, and interactive experiences and positioning the store as a key platform for "platformized operations, ecosystem services, and scenario-based applications".

Developed by the Hubei Humanoid Robot Innovation Center, the store is designed around the "7S" concept: Sales, Spare Parts, Service, Survey, Solution, Show, and School, providing customers with a comprehensive, one-stop service.