Stop & Shop’s Marty Gets a Shark Makeover for Summer

If you've ever shopped at Stop & Shop, chances are you've spotted Marty—the googly-eyed robot rolling up and down the aisles.

Marty the Robot Gets an Ocean-Inspired Makeover

My youngest daughter loves seeing Marty, especially when he's dressed up for holidays and special occasions. Now, Marty is dressing for the ocean.

Together with the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC) based in Chatham, Massachusetts, the pair is kicking off the 2026 shark research season with what might be the most New England collaboration ever—with Marty at the center of it all.

Adding a fun twist to their research this summer, AWSC will name the first newly identified great white shark of the summer "Marty" in honor of the beloved supermarket robot.

Shark-Themed Marty Plush Toys Hit Stores

Stop & Shop is offering something special too—limited-edition "White Shark Marty" plush toys that are in stores while supplies last. 20% of all plush toys sales will go directly to support shark research, education, and conservation.

READ MORE: Martha's Vineyard Teens Lead Swim To Fight Cancer

If your kids are anything like my daughter, they're going to want one immediately.

Courtesy of Stop & Shop

How This Partnership Supports Shark Research

Of course the partnership is about more than just adorable plushies. The AWSC uses the summer season to track and study great white sharks off Cape Cod, helping to keep beachgoers and boaters safe.

How to Stay Shark Smart This Summer

They're also encouraging beachgoers to stay "shark smart" by downloading their Sharktivity app, pay attention to posted warnings, and avoid spots where seals are active.

READ MORE: How Hi-Tech Buoys Make Shark Sightings More Accurate

So while your kids cuddle their new plush named Marty, you can follow along with the researchers as they head out to find a real one in our local waters.

Only in New England, right?