Takeaway delivery group Just Eat has launched a trial using ground robots to carry out deliveries, taking part in a growing trend for its sector.
The trial will take place across Bristol and Milton Keynes. Just Eat said the increased delivery capacity brought on by the robotic couriers would allow it to meet the busy demand stemming from the coming Valentine’s Day weekend.
The UK robotics trial follows an initial pilot programme carried out by the group last year in Switzerland, that saw just under 1,000 deliveries carried out. The company has also tested drone deliveries in Ireland.
Just Eats’s UK robotic rollout follows a similar trial launched by one of the firm’s primary competitors Uber Eats, which deployed robotic couriers in Leeds late last year in partnership with Starship Technologies.
“We’re always innovating to improve the delivery experience for our customers. To trial ground robotics we’ve teamed up with two expert organisations to ensure that we’re learning and working with the very best,” said Just Eat CTO Mert Öztekin.
“For those in Bristol and Milton Keynes who love tech – what better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than a robot delivery from your favourite local.”
The Bristol end of the trial has been launched in partnership with Delivers.AI, while in Milton Keynes it has been done alongside RIVR.
“We’re excited to be partnering with Just Eat Takeaway in Bristol and to support local independent restaurants with our technology,” said Delivers.AI founder Oral Yigitkus.
“This partnership is an important step in demonstrating how Delivers.AI’s ground robotics technology can complement existing delivery networks, helping to improve reliability, urban logistics, and the overall customer experience while supporting local high streets.”
RIVR chief executive Marko Bjelonic added: “Expanding our partnership with Just Eat Takeaway.com is an important step in scaling autonomous delivery across European cities.
“By automating delivery right to the customer’s doorstep, our technology removes friction and creates a more seamless experience for consumers. The launch in Milton Keynes reflects a shared focus on practical, automated delivery that integrates seamlessly into existing operations.”
