7-Eleven is testing self-driving robots to deliver orders in Los Angeles through a partnership with Serve Robotics.
Serve Robotics 7-Eleven’s venture arm, 7-Ventures, was one of several investors in Serve Robotics’ $13 million seed funding round. Serve said it plans to expand its robot fleet nationally this year through partnerships with brands like 7-Eleven.
“Our vision at 7-Eleven is to be the first choice for convenience—anytime, anywhere. We are redefining convenience by delivering innovative shopping solutions to our customers,” said Raghu Mahadevan, 7-Eleven senior vice president and chief digital officer, in a press release announcing the seed funding. “This collaboration will allow us to continue our 94-year legacy of innovation and expand our last mile delivery capabilities to make 7NOW more affordable, sustainable and accessible for everyone.”
Serve robots are capable of carrying up to 50 pounds and include cup holders. The robots are programmed to slow down when manoeuvring over rough ground to ensure the delivery of spill-free beverages. Customers can grab their order from inside the robot after entering a code.
“You never forget the first time you get your food from a robot,” Serve Robotics CEO Ali Kashani told Insider.
The robots are designed to deliver short distances, ranging from one to three miles, and most Serve robots can make their deliveries in 15 minutes.
7-Eleven are not the only company using robotic companies to enhance their delivery service. Last month, Uber Eats began using a fleet of automated, self-driving robots by partner Cartken to deliver food orders in Miami.
Grubhub recently partnered with two sidewalk robotic companies for food delivery on college campuses. Grubhub partnered with Starship Technologies to provide robot deliveries at the University of Kentucky; the University of Nevada, Las Vegas; Wayne State University; Southern Methodist University; and Fairfield University. Grubhub also partnered with Kiwibot for robot deliveries at the University of North Dakota and will roll out the service to additional schools next semester.
