German supermarket chain REWE is rolling out Europe’s first self-driving snack kiosk following the success of trials in Cologne during the last two months.
The ‘Snack Mobil’, developed in conjunction with Vodafone, has covered over 200 test kilometres distributing soft drinks, confectionery, and snacks to staff in the district of Carlswerk.
Travelling at a maximum speed of 6km an hour, consumers simply wave at the self-propelled kiosk for it to stop, or meet it at predefined stops. They can then place their order on a screen and make contactless payments with their smartphones.
Local transport officials have now given the REWE Snack Mobil clearance to go ahead with live operations for the general public, which will initially last until the end of October.
“The Snack Mobil is a good example of how REWE is leading the German food retail sector in the digitization of the trade, in strategic online activities such as delivery and pick-up services or fulfilment solutions,” said Lionel Souque, the group’s CEO.
“We test together with the Snack Mobil our project partner Vodafone the future of autonomous mobility. We are very proud and grateful to be part of this project. An exciting phase in this project begins today – the Snack Mobil interacts for the first time with many different customers.”
Vodafone technology boss Gerhard Mack added: “Two months ago we sent the REWE Snack Mobil out onto the road for the first trips. Cameras, sensors and a fast network have kept the self-driving kiosk safely on course ever since. For the first time, an autonomously driving vehicle is part of our everyday life and has covered hundreds of kilometres since then Now the live operation for sales starts – with snacks and drinks for everyone.”
NAM Implications:
- This says it all:
- “The Snack Mobil is a good example of how REWE is leading the German food retail sector in the digitization of the trade, in strategic online activities such as delivery and pick-up services or fulfilment solutions”
- A pointer for all…
- Passing the inevitable test in retail:
- ‘Try it and see…’
