Blue Ocean Robotics

Based in Odense, Denmark, Blue Ocean Robotics operates as a "Robot Venture Factory," a business model centered on developing professional service robots and spinning them out into dedicated subsidiary companies for commercialization. Founded in 2013 by Claus Risager, John Erland Ostergaard, and Rune K. Larsen, the company leverages a common technological platform to create new robotic solutions efficiently. The founders, who have academic backgrounds and extensive experience in robotics and AI, initially financed the company through contract development for larger firms before shifting their strategy to owning the robot brands themselves, securing their first venture capital in 2016.

The company's business model involves identifying market needs across various sectors—including healthcare, hospitality, construction, and agriculture—and developing robotic solutions to address them. Revenue is generated through the sale of these robots, which are distributed globally. A significant milestone occurred in March 2025, when 3C GROUPS, owned by businessman Niels Thorborg, became the majority owner, injecting fresh capital to strengthen the company's financial foundation and commercial focus. Prior to this, the company had raised substantial funding, including a notable $51 million round in January 2022 from A.P. Møller Holding.

Blue Ocean Robotics' product portfolio is managed through distinct subsidiary brands. UVD Robots produces an autonomous mobile disinfection robot that uses UV-C light to eliminate pathogens, a technology that saw increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic and secured a contract with the European Commission. GoBe Robots are telepresence robots designed to facilitate communication and reduce the need for travel. PTR Robots focuses on safe patient transfer and rehabilitation, offering a mobile robotic lift that assists with patient handling and mobility training. This venture factory approach allows for specialized focus on each product line's development, production, and global market expansion.

Keywords: Robot Venture Factory, professional service robots, mobile robotics, healthcare robotics, disinfection robots, UVD Robots, telepresence robots, GoBe Robots, patient transfer robots, PTR Robots, autonomous mobile robots, robotics platform, robotics commercialization, Claus Risager, John Erland Ostergaard, Odense robotics, UV-C disinfection, patient handling, rehabilitation robotics, robotics spin-offs, 3C GROUPS, Niels Thorborg, A.P. Moller Holding, service robot manufacturing, European robotics