With the spin-off of a new company at the beginning of January 2026, Schunk is consolidating its activities in humanoid robotics and positioning itself as a key player in the growing market. The new company aims to develop modular humanoid robot hands for industrial applications, thereby systematically expanding the availability and use of humanoid systems.
As a technology pioneer, Schunk is driving the industrial advancement of humanoid robotics. Building on decades of experience in flexible gripping technology and working with industrial companies, start-ups, and research institutions, the company has been opening up new fields of application beyond the purely scientific environment with its 5-finger gripping hand for more than ten years. The newly founded technology spin-off, SCHUNK Humanoid Robotics GmbH, now consolidates expertise in the field of humanoid robotics and enables faster transfer of innovations into market-ready products.
Foundation built on expertise, technology and market proximity
The spin-off is launching from a position of strength: it builds on Schunk’s many years of experience in automating handling processes, leverages existing infrastructure as well as test and development facilities at the company’s own robot application centers (CoLabs), and draws on an international research and development network. In addition, it benefits from a proven technology portfolio – supported by a global customer base and established access to the relevant markets for humanoid robotics.
The focus is on the next generation of a modular, anthropomorphic 5-finger gripping hand with an integrated wrist and forearm. Designed as a scalable component for the industrial use of humanoid systems, a new prototype is already nearing readiness for use. “Humanoid robotics holds enormous market potential. With the spin-off, we are creating the space for an agile, independent company with a start-up mindset, a strong technological foundation, and close market alignment. This enables us to further strengthen our position as a leading end-of-arm partner in robotics and to establish a global standard for humanoid hands,” says Timo Gessmann, CTO of Schunk.
The spin-off is seeking talent with an entrepreneurial mindset across the entire value chain – from mechatronics and embedded development to AI and simulation, all the way to system integration and product management. Want to learn more or apply? We look forward to hearing from you. Contact: info@shr-robotics.eu
Source: SCHUNK SE & Co. KG
