Market research
PepsiCo has rolled out a self-driving robot delivery service under its smart technology platform, Hello Goodness.
The 'Snackbot', which has launched at California's University of the Pacific, responds to orders placed via a smartphone. Students meet the robot on campus to retrieve their products.
Brands shown on the promotional video include Pure Leaf tea, Starbucks cold brew coffee and Lays Baked crisps.
The robot, which was created in partnership with Robby Technologies, can travel about 20 miles on a single charge.
The launch follows the rollout of a smart vending machine in late 2015. The units give consumers detailed nutritional information about each product.
Driverless technology will become increasingly important to the food and drinks industries as the race to make last-mile delivery more efficient continues. Last month, US grocery retailer The Kroger Co launched what it claims is the first unmanned delivery service to the general public, in partnership with autonomous vehicles company Nuro.
Sectors: Marketing – advertising & promotions, Soft drinks
Companies: PepsiCo