Epson Robots says it is “redefining the role of automation” by bringing manufacturing beyond the factory floor and directly into the hands of consumers.
As part of its strategy to expand into retail and service industries, Epson has made a strategic investment in Blank Beauty, a Knoxville-based tech platform that enables on-demand, customized manufacturing of consumer packaged goods.
This partnership marks the beginning of a co-creation initiative aimed at delivering personalized products at scale using advanced robotics.
By integrating Epson advanced automation solutions – including the T3 All-in-One SCARA Robot, Epson RC+ software, Color Control Technology, and Spectroscopic Vision systems – with Blank Beauty’s autonomous manufacturing platform, the two companies are pioneering a new model for retail engagement.
This collaboration brings together Epson’s precision robotics and Blank Beauty’s agile, on-demand manufacturing with color matching technology to transform how automated systems produce single-quantity, custom products in real time.
As part of the co-creation, Epson and Blank Beauty have developed an innovative in-store kiosk terminal capable of manufacturing and dispensing single- and small-quantity, custom-color nail polishes.
Powered by Epson’s compact and precise T3 robotic arms, the 2’ x 2’ kiosk delivers a seamless, space-efficient production experience – from real-time color selection to mixing and dispensing – within minutes.
The live, visually dynamic process not only delivers a personalized product, but also serves as a retailtainment centerpiece, offering consumers a next-generation customization experience.
The kiosk has already been piloted in select locations with a leading national retailer and is gaining strong traction.
Rick Brookshire, director of robotics at Epson America, says: “This is a powerful example of how Epson technology is entering new frontiers – delivering scalable customization, reducing costs and enhancing customer engagement.
“Our investment in Blank Beauty through Epson X underscores the active role Epson Robots is taking to drive innovation in production, distribution and consumer experiences across industries.”
Beyond in-store experiences, the Epson and Blank Beauty collaboration extends to e-commerce, where Epson-powered equipment integrated with web applications to fully automate the process – from color formulation and mixing to packaging and shipment of online orders.
Charles Brandon, co-founder and CEO, Blank Beauty, says: “We built Blank Beauty as a platform for customized manufacturing, and to do it right, we needed a partner with flexibility, stability and proven technology.
“Aptus DesignWorks, a longtime trusted design partner, introduced Epson as the ideal technology partner to achieve our vision.
“Along with Kirker Enterprises as our supplier partner and Evolution VC Partners, an industry leading venture capital fund, Epson has been essential in helping us take our concept to final deployment in just six months.
“Epson automation solutions made it possible to take true innovation and transform it into retailtainment (sic).”
Looking ahead, Epson and Blank Beauty plan to expand their offering beyond nail polish to include other customizable cosmetics like gel nail products, liquid foundations and lip glosses.
By leveraging Epson’s advanced Color Control Technology, the collaboration aims to deliver precise, high-value personalization across a growing range of industries.
Future applications may also extend to categories like custom paints, aromatherapy and fragrance products and skincare – broadening the impact of robotics in the consumer experience landscape.
