Donatos Pizza announced that it will open its first fully autonomous pizzeria in June. Donatos and its sister company, Agápe Automation, partnered with Appetronix to bring the robot-operated restaurant to life.
The big-name US pizza restaurant will have a new way of working thanks to the implementation of automation and artificial intelligence.
The new fully automated restaurant will debut outside the security checkpoint in front of Terminal B at Columbus John Glenn International Airport and will be operated by restaurateur HMS Host. The new autonomous kitchen will serve fast, made-to-order pizzas for travellers.
Technology inclusion to go all the way independet
“We’re not just incorporating technology into a restaurant; we’re moving into a fully autonomous restaurant. But more importantly, we will continue to serve delicious, toppings-rich pizzas and deliver the world-class experience that Donatos has always been known for,” said Kevin King, president and CEO of Donatos Pizza. ‘In a busy airport, where customers are more focused on catching their flights, we believe the vending machine-style location will be a success.’
The autonomous restaurant will operate 24/7, leveraging cutting-edge robotic and data science technologies, allowing customers to enjoy an efficient experience every step of the way, from placing orders to receiving their pizza.
The robot also offers a visual experience, allowing customers to see how their pizzas are prepared in real time.
‘Making this first-of-its-kind autonomous kitchen a reality in collaboration with Donatos has been an extraordinary experience and marks a milestone in the future of the restaurant industry,’ said Nipun Sharma, co-founder and CEO of Appetronix.
“With our cutting-edge, AI-powered robotic technology, we deliver hot and fresh pizza with unprecedented accuracy and efficiency. This is more than innovation – it’s a transformative leap for the fast food restaurant industry, setting a new standard for consistency, speed and customer satisfaction.”
Great pride in Jim Grote’s innovation
‘I am incredibly proud of the innovation that my father, Jim Grote, has driven over the past 62 years,’ said Jane Grote Abell, CEO of Donatos Pizza. “It’s in his DNA to constantly look for better ways to deliver the same consistent, high-quality pizza we’ve always served.
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At Donatos, we believe that people are at the heart of innovation, and this fully automated restaurant allows our customers to enjoy Donatos on the go, without sacrificing the experience. More innovation, more passion and more opportunities to enjoy delicious pizza – that’s what it’s all about.
“Donatos’ new fully autonomous restaurant is an exciting addition to John Glenn International, showcasing their commitment to innovation and our shared focus on enhancing the passenger experience,” said Joseph R. Nardone, President & CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority that operates John Glenn International.
“This cutting-edge technology will provide travelers with a quick and convenient taste of a beloved local favorite.” This partnership further strengthens Donatos Pizza’s mission to promote goodwill through its products, service, principles, and people. And promotes Kevin King’s recent four point strategy, which focuses on creating new, innovative ideas that will disrupt the pizza scene.
About Donatos Pizza
Donatos Pizza, founded by Jim Grote in 1963 in Columbus, Ohio, is a family-owned business known for its famous thin-crust pizzas with abundant toppings spread Edge to Edge®. Headquartered in Columbus, Donatos and its franchise partners operate over 175 stores.
Additionally, Donatos Pizza is proudly served in nearly 300 non-traditional locations nationwide, including select Red Robin restaurants. Committed to quality, community, and customer satisfaction, Donatos Pizza has received numerous awards and accolades, reflecting its dedication to excellence and innovation. For more information about Donatos Pizza and franchising opportunities, visit www.donatosfranchise.com.
All you must know about Appetronix Inc.
Appetronix Inc. (formerly SJW Robotics) is a foodtech company specializing in the development and design of autonomous robotic solutions for commercial restaurant kitchens.
With an expert team with extensive experience in restaurant kitchen design, worldwide expansion of restaurant chains, advanced automation, robotics, and data science, Appetronix is at the forefront of innovation in the foodservice industry. Our mission is to revolutionize the way restaurants operate by leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver custom solutions that are scalable and tailored to meet the requirements of the next generation of quick-service restaurants.
Our autonomous robotic solutions holistically automate all back of house functions including portioning, cooking, plating, and even cleaning with a singular goal of providing the best tasting food.
Carol McDaniel is a dedicated and results-driven professional with 5 years of experience and US News. Known for her strong problem-solving skills and collaborative mindset, Carol has built a reputation for delivering high-impact results across diverse teams and projects.
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