Kroger's fleet of autonomous vehicles is hitting the streets of Scottsdale, Ariz., with customers able to order delivery from the East McDowell Road Fry's as early as Thursday.
Kroger's chief digital officer, Yael Cosset, said the pilot launch will help the retailer "test and learn to understand customer acceptance of autonomous vehicles in our seamless offering."
The test, in partnership with Silicon Valley-based robotics firm Nuro, will begin the pilot using Nuro's self-driving Toyota Prius fleet. Nuro said it plans to introduce its custom R1 driverless vehicle, a van with delivery compartments, this fall.
As part of the new robot-driven program, Fry's customers can place orders online or using the Fry's Food Stores app for same-day or next-day delivery. There is no minimum order for delivery, but each order carries a $5.99 fee.
Scottsdale Mayor Jim Lane spoke out in favor of the new pilot, saying the city welcomes "innovative technology that can benefit the lives of Scottsdale residents."
"We feel this partnership holds tremendous potential and promise, and offers our residents real, not-yet-experienced convenience for everyday routines," he said.
The association presented its Thomas K. Zaucha Entrepreneurial Excellence Award to the executive chairman for his vision, innovation and creative entrepreneurship.
The Lempert Report: New zoning limits on discount stores, put in place by local government to set aside space for fresh food, create a challenge for dollar store chains.
The retailer aims to reformulate more private label goods, increase product transparency in fresh foods and meats, and further reduce food and plastic waste by 2025.
