Just Eat introduces a groundbreaking robot delivery trial, prompting strong reactions from customers who label the machines ‘nightmare fuel.’ The initiative deploys Delivers.AI robots in Bristol and RIVR robots in Milton Keynes, partnering with 10 independent restaurant brands for this limited experiment.
Trial Details and Rollout
The robots, dressed in distinctive orange uniforms, already handle deliveries from local eateries just ahead of Valentine’s Day, one of the peak periods for food orders. This UK trial builds on a successful ground robotics pilot in Switzerland, where nearly 1,000 deliveries occurred. Just Eat also runs a parallel drone delivery test in Ireland.
Company leaders highlight key benefits, such as accessing remote locations and enhancing service during high-demand times.
Customer Reactions
British customers voice concerns on social media. One remarked: “Nightmare fuel, going to scare the life out of someone, who thought this was a good idea.” Another stated: “That b***** thing comes near me I will actually have a heart attack!” A third noted: “My dog goes absolutely mental when a moped pulls up outside. I’m gonna have to settle a dog fight to get me chips then?”
Leadership Insights
Mert Öztekin, chief technology officer at Just Eat, commented: “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. 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.”
Oral Yigitkus, CTO and founder at Delivers.AI, added: “We’re excited to be partnering with Just Eat Takeaway in Bristol and to support local independent restaurants with our technology. 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.”
Marko Bjelonic, CEO of RIVR, stated: “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.”
