Technology

Sodexo launching autonomous grocery stores, ramen vending, food delivery

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March 30, 2022

Sodexo S.A., the Paris, France-based food services and facilities management company, will introduce its eat>NOW autonomous grocery stores, ramen vending and virtual dining concepts delivered by robots to U.S. campuses this spring, according to a press release.

In partnership with AiFi, an AI platform enabling autonomous shopping solutions, Sodexo will introduce eat>NOW, a frictionless, checkout-free grocery and convenience offering. Among the first campuses to host this AI-powered retail is the University of Denver with a grand opening on April 6.

In partnership with Yo Kai Express, Sodexo clients will also be able to offer students ramen vending machines, with 80-plus ramen and udon noodle bowl combinations. Already on campuses, including New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Yo Kai Express kiosks allow guests to place their orders and make payments via a touchscreen.

Sodexo will also offer campuses delivery-only options available on Sodexo's Bite app for universities. The options are already in place on Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.