Eyal Yair (Xpand): 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Eyal Yair is an Israeli entrepreneur best known as the co-founder and CCO (Chief Commercial Officer) of Xpand, formerly known as 1MRobotics, a cutting-edge retail technology startup specializing in autonomous, AI-powered retail stores. Founded in 2021 alongside Roee Tuval, Yair has played a pivotal role in pioneering the next generation of retail infrastructure, enabling unmanned, modular “store-in-a-box” solutions that operate around the clock without staff. With a background in software development and business leadership, and multiple ventures under his belt, Yair's innovative vision is reshaping how convenience and grocery shopping are experienced globally. This article explores ten key facts about Eyal Yair and his work with Xpand, revealing the influence and future directions of his entrepreneurship.

1. Co-Founder and CCO of Xpand

Eyal Yair co-founded Xpand (originally 1MRobotics) in 2021 with Roee Tuval, taking on the role of Chief Commercial Officer. Xpand focuses on designing and deploying autonomous retail stores that combine robotics, artificial intelligence, and computer vision to create frictionless shopping experiences. As CCO, Yair directs commercial strategy, partnerships, and customer relations, leading the company's efforts to expand globally and secure funding.

2. Background and Experience

Yair holds a law degree from Bar-Ilan University (1995-1998) and has extensive experience in software development, people and customer management, and startup leadership. Prior to Xpand, he co-founded Netonomy and held leadership positions in other technology ventures. His multidisciplinary skills in software and business have been key to driving innovation in automated retail.

3. Xpand’s Technological Breakthroughs

Under Yair’s commercial leadership, Xpand has developed modular, plug-and-play “store-in-a-box” units integrating AI-powered inventory tracking, real-time replenishment, and automated picking and packing. These stores are designed to run 24/7 without staff, offering retailers quick deployment and flexible sizing with minimal training required for upkeep.

4. Company Rebranding and Growth

Founded as 1MRobotics, the company rebranded to Xpand to signal its transition from R&D to active commercial deployment. Yair has been instrumental in pushing this strategic shift, helping secure substantial funding, and focusing on commercial scalability. Xpand raised $6 million in a Series A round in 2025 to accelerate rollouts across Europe and North America.

5. Autonomous Retail Store Launch in Vienna

Xpand’s first smart autonomous retail store opened in Vienna as a major milestone for the company’s global expansion strategy. This launch marks Xpand’s move towards realizing the vision of scalable, always-on retail infrastructure. Yair’s role involved positioning the company to meet growing retailer demand for efficient, unmanned outlets.

6. Leadership Team and Industry Connections

Eyal Yair collaborates closely with Xpand’s experienced leadership team, including CEO Joel Bar-El, formerly of retail AI unicorn Trax Retail. The team has deep expertise spanning retail, logistics, and technology enterprises such as SAP and Magic Leap. Yair’s network facilitates partnerships critical for advancing retail automation.

7. Pioneering the Future of Retail

Yair often advocates publicly for the transformative impact of autonomous retail, emphasizing benefits like zero shrinkage, personalized shopping, and a seamless user experience. His vision sees automated “store-in-a-box” solutions as game-changers in addressing the demands for convenience and efficiency in grocery and other retail sectors worldwide.

8. Industry Recognition and Influence

Through participation in events like Groceryshop 2024 and active engagement on platforms such as LinkedIn, Yair has emerged as a thought leader in retail technology. He highlights how AI and robotics meet emerging challenges in grocery and quick commerce, driving innovation in a rapidly evolving market.

9. Early Startup Challenges and Successes

Like many startup founders, Yair faced the challenges of developing pioneering automated fulfillment technologies and transitioning from stealth mode to commercial release. His leadership helped secure initial seed funding and guided Xpand through its growth phases, positioning it among top competitors in automated retail.

10. Future Prospects and Market Potential

Looking ahead, Yair envisions Xpand expanding its footprint across global markets, refining its AI capabilities, and enhancing its modular store designs. With funding secured and pilot stores operational, the company under Yair's commercial leadership is poised to disrupt traditional retail and capture significant market share in autonomous convenience stores and micro-fulfillment centers.

Conclusion

Eyal Yair’s entrepreneurial journey is a compelling portrait of innovation meeting market demand at the forefront of retail technology. As co-founder and CCO of Xpand, he has been central to driving autonomous, AI-powered stores from concept to reality, presenting new opportunities for retailers worldwide. His expertise in managing technology ventures and commercial operations continues to be crucial as the retail landscape moves toward automation and data-driven solutions. Yair’s work invites us to consider how future shopping experiences may evolve and questions how retail infrastructure will adapt in the years to come.