扫地机器人企业iRobot在日本与中企背水一战

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the rapid rise of Chinese robotic vacuum companies, which are introducing advanced products, while the American company iRobot is struggling to maintain its market position and is attempting to revitalize its brand in Japan through product upgrades [2][6][10]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Chinese companies have gained market share through competitive pricing and technological advancements, with Roborock projected to surpass iRobot in global shipments in 2024 [6][10]. - iRobot's recent product launch includes six new models equipped with high-performance LiDAR technology, aiming to enhance their competitive edge in the Japanese market [5][4]. - The overall market environment for iRobot is challenging, as evidenced by a 44% year-over-year decline in revenue for Q4 2024, amounting to $17.203 million [11]. Group 2: iRobot's Strategy - iRobot is focusing on the Japanese market, which it considers crucial for its recovery, aiming to maintain a 70% market share in robotic vacuums and to capture 20% of the overall vacuum cleaner market by 2030 [14]. - The company is facing criticism regarding its declining technological prowess, with some retail executives noting that Roomba's technology is perceived to be falling behind competitors [10][14]. - iRobot has implemented a "designated pricing system" in Japan to prevent discounting, which has faced backlash from retailers, indicating potential challenges in maintaining strong retail relationships [14].