In a groundbreaking development for the UK, a new cutting-edge generation of robots is set to revolutionize the takeaway delivery industry. Starship Technologies and Just Eat have joined forces to introduce robot delivery services for hot food in Sunderland, a city known for its technological advancements and the hub of Just Eat’s operations in the North East. Customers in Sunderland can now access Starship robot deliveries through the Just Eat app, with delivery costs ranging from 50 pence to £3 depending on the distance.
This innovative move follows the recent introduction of driverless taxis in the UK, as reported by the Mirror. The demand for robot delivery services is expected to increase, with plans to expand the hi-tech service to various locations nationwide.
Starship Technologies boasts a fleet of hundreds of robots delivering goods for retailers across the UK, making it the largest robot fleet in the world. The company operates in 270 locations across eight countries, offering autonomous delivery services. Currently, their grocery delivery service is available in several UK regions, including Leeds, Wakefield, Greater Manchester, Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, and Milton Keynes.
Patrick Melia, the Chief Executive of Sunderland City Council, expressed enthusiasm about the introduction of robot deliveries in the city, highlighting the convenience it will bring to residents, especially those with mobility challenges. The use of robots for deliveries has been well-received by diverse groups, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and children, who enjoy the robots’ ability to play music.
Starship Technologies, founded by Ahti Heinla and Janus Friis, the co-founders of Skype, has overcome various challenges to establish itself as a leader in autonomous delivery services. The robots are equipped with electric batteries, Artificial Intelligence, and onboard cameras for navigation. Ahti Heinla believes the UK, with its new focus on advanced AI technologies, is at the forefront of this technological revolution.
According to a report by Prysm Global, expanding the utilization of Personal Delivery Devices (PDDs) in the UK could significantly boost the economy by 2035. The report suggests that having Starship manufacture its robots in the UK could create over 550 high-skilled jobs and increase grocery spending in the country.
Starship robots are equipped with anti-theft alarms and can operate efficiently, even in challenging weather conditions like deep snow. The robots have a long battery life and can operate for an entire day before needing a recharge, which takes only two hours.
Mert Öztekin, the Chief Technology Officer at Just Eat, highlighted the collaboration with local independent restaurants to trial the Starship robots, emphasizing the robots’ ability to adapt and learn from their surroundings. Ahti Heinla, the Founder and Chief Executive at Starship Technologies, emphasized the importance of smart robots in the delivery industry, noting that their robots continuously learn and improve with each journey.
