Murphy USA Rolls Out Autonomous Foodservice

Murphy USA recently announced an initial rollout of an “emerging autonomous foodservice platform in select larger-format stores.” The platform, developed by Automated Retail Technologies (ART), will launch with White Castle as the official partner for the autonomous platform. The retailer said the platform introduces “hot, branded food without the space, labor, infrastructure and complexity associated with a traditional restaurant or full commercial kitchen.”

Customers place orders through a touchscreen interface and receive hot food in approximately two minutes. Behind the scenes, ART’s technology automates preparation, heating and delivery within a self-contained system. The technology is also designed as a modular, multi-brand platform capable of supporting nationally recognized brands and a variety of food categories over time.

“This initiative combines [our] operating philosophy with automation and robotics to explore a new model for convenience foodservice, one designed to enhance the customer experience, expand food offerings, drive incremental store traffic and support long-term profitable growth,” Murphy USA said.

“We’re continually evaluating opportunities that create additional value for our customers while building on the strengths that have made Murphy USA successful,” said Scott Woodward, Murphy USA senior vice president and chief merchandising officer. “This relationship allows us to introduce a new convenience offering informed by customer insights, while maintaining the operational discipline and focus on everyday value. We’re encouraged by the opportunity to drive incremental inside sales, traffic and basket growth.”