Robots could be coming to a Wendy’s near you, delivering chili, 4 for 4s and Biggie Bags much quicker to your parking spot in seconds.
The company is working with an Austin, Texas hyperlogistics company called Pipedream to test an underground robot system that will deliver digital orders to designated parking spots in a matter of seconds, the restaurant said in a news release Wednesday.
Testing for the underground delivery system will begin at an existing restaurant later this year, the companies said.
“We know that serving orders quickly and accurately leads to increased customer satisfaction,” said Deepak Ajmani, U.S. Chief Operations Officer for Wendy’s, in the news release. “Pipedream’s Instant Pickup system has the potential to unlock greater mobile order speed of service and accuracy, enabling us to consistently deliver hot and fresh Wendy’s products to our fans.”
How does robot delivery work?
Pipedream, which was founded in 2021, uses a fully electric underground system that is supposed to help stores, warehouses, restaurants, developers, and individuals meet increasing delivery needs. The company also said its underground system serves customers in a way that eliminates congestion and improves safety, while also lessening the burden on employees.
To deliver the orders as quickly as possible, Pipedream will connect the Wendy’s kitchen to an instant pickup portal outside of the restaurant. Autonomous robots will then carry the orders through an underground delivery system to car-side pickup portals.
Customers will be able to get their orders without leaving their vehicles, the companies said.
The companies also said the automated, underground system will help employees by “streamlining digital order pick-up points.”
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