Vending

Walmart tests robotic delivery vending machine

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August 10, 2022

Walmart is testing a robotic delivery vending machine from Tortoise, a Silicon Valley startup, according to a Business Insider report.

Walmart has been using the robots to sell chocolate eggs and Kinder beef jerky to shoppers waiting for curbside pickup orders in a parking lot area.

The Tortoise robots drive up to the shopper's vehicle and once the shopper pays with a credit card, the robot's lid opens to let them get their item.

Walmart said it is testing the robot at "store 100" near its Bentonville, Arkansas headquarters.

Companies are deploying Tortoise robots at sports venues and conferences, giving attendees a quick and frictionless way to purchase snacks and beverages.

In May, Aramark Sports + Entertainment and Capital One announced plans to use the Tortoise robots to bring baked goods to fans during the Stanley Cup Playoffs