iRobot Exits Public Markets Following Acquisition by Chinese Consortium

iRobot US4627261005

The pioneering robotics firm iRobot, best known for its Roomba vacuum cleaners, is now under the complete ownership of a Chinese investor group. This change concludes a Chapter 11 bankruptcy process, with Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co. and Santrum Hong Kong taking control of the storied American company. The transition has resulted in the removal of iRobot's shares from public trading.

iRobot's journey to this point has been marked by significant challenges. After a planned acquisition by Amazon collapsed, the company faced plummeting revenues and operational strain from supply chain issues. These cumulative setbacks led to a bankruptcy filing in December 2025. The subsequent Chapter 11 proceeding was executed rapidly to stem further financial losses.

Under a pre-negotiated restructuring plan, Picea—previously iRobot's primary contract manufacturer and a secured creditor—assumed full ownership on January 23, 2026. The company's stock listing was formally terminated just three days later, on January 26.

Key Transaction Milestones:
* December 2025: Bankruptcy filing initiated after the failed Amazon deal.
* January 23, 2026: Acquisition finalized by Shenzhen Picea Robotics Co.
* January 26, 2026: Delisting from the stock exchange completed.

Scrutiny from U.S. Regulators

The shift to foreign ownership did not pass without official concern. In a court filing dated January 21, 2026, the U.S. government indicated that the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) could review the takeover for potential national security implications. American authorities have consistently focused on the transfer of sensitive robotics technology to overseas entities.

Despite these expressed reservations, the transaction proceeded to its conclusion. SEC documentation filed on January 26 confirmed the company's new status as a privately held entity.

Outcome for Shareholders and Future Plans

The delisting decision followed immediately from the change in ownership. For existing equity holders, this move effectively translates to a total loss, culminating years of share price decline and unsuccessful rescue efforts.

Looking forward, iRobot has stated its intention to develop the next generation of smart home robotics with the backing of its new owners. The acquisition marks a definitive and stark new chapter for the once-dominant player in consumer robotics.