Tech 7-Eleven trials robot delivery on Tokyo’s public roads

[thomas]

Seven-Eleven Japan Co. has launched trials of a self-driving robot delivery service on public roads in Tokyo, aiming to enhance customer convenience and address potential staffing shortages in the years ahead.

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The company, which operates the Seven-Eleven chain, is among a growing number of businesses exploring or implementing robotic deliveries in response to labour shortages affecting the logistics sector. The robot, developed in collaboration with startup Lomby Inc. and Suzuki Motor Corp., is equipped with eight cameras and can detect traffic signals, pedestrians, and other potential obstacles. It is remotely monitored and travels at a maximum speed of 6 kilometres per hour, delivering items ordered via the company's 7NOW service.

Orders can be made via 7NOW's dedicated app or website. Deliveries are made from the nearest convenience store. In exceptional cases, deliveries take only 20 minutes from placing an order. Customers can order from around 3,000 products in stock at stores in their area. Seven-Eleven views robot delivery services as one of its growth strategies and aims to reach 120 billion yen ($836 million) in sales in the business year ending in February 2031. Deliveries are currently made by corporate partners commissioned by Seven-Eleven. For the latest trial runs, store staff pack merchandise ordered by a customer into a compartment in the robot, which autonomously travels to the pickup location. Upon delivery, the customer holds up their smartphone showing the app's QR code to validate their order and retrieve the items. Customers can choose to have their items delivered by hand or robotically when they place orders. The trial run involving four robots is under way at two stores in the western Tokyo city of Hachioji. Orders are accepted between 9:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. Each delivery costs 330 yen, including tax.

7-Eleven tests robot delivery service on public roads in Tokyo | The Asahi Shimbun: Breaking News, Japan News and Analysis

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