Albertsons Tests Remote-Controlled Grocery Delivery Robots

Albertsons Companies, parent organization to well-known grocery stores like Safeway and Jewel-Osco, has initiated a trial program. This program will evaluate the feasibility of utilizing remotely operated delivery robots for grocery transport, developed by the Silicon Valley-based company, Tortoise.

Pilot Program Details

The initial phase of this pilot will be conducted at two Safeway stores situated in Northern California. Dmitry Shevelenko, co-founder and president of Tortoise, anticipates expansion. He believes that a successful trial will lead to broader implementation across other stores within the state, and potentially throughout the entire West Coast.

Safeway-branded delivery carts, outfitted with Tortoise’s proprietary sensors and software, will facilitate deliveries to customers within a three-mile radius of the store. Remote operators, potentially located across considerable distances, will remotely steer these carts to their designated destinations.

Delivery Cart Specifications

These delivery carts are capable of carrying up to 120 pounds of groceries, secured within four lockable containers. Initially, a human escort will accompany each cart. The intention is to eliminate this escort once the pilot program demonstrates consistent reliability.

Upon arrival at the customer’s location, a text message will be sent, prompting them to retrieve their grocery order.

Image Credits: Tortoise/Albertsons

Industry Trend: Automated Grocery Delivery

This pilot program exemplifies a growing trend among major retailers to embrace technology. The goal is to expedite the delivery of goods to consumers. Companies such as Amazon, Kroger, and Walmart are actively exploring delivery robots and autonomous vehicles for both customer deliveries and internal logistics.

“We are dedicated to exploring innovative technologies that enhance convenience for our customers,” stated Chris Rupp, EVP and chief customer and digital officer, in an official statement. “We are committed to rapidly testing, learning, and implementing successful innovations to provide the most convenient shopping experience available.”

Tortoise Validates Delivery Cart Strategy

This partnership serves as confirmation of Tortoise’s strategic shift towards delivery carts. This business venture was launched less than a year ago.

Shevelenko explained that the concept originated in April, with the first delivery cart being deployed in Los Angeles in late October.

Tortoise’s Evolution

Tortoise initially focused on equipping electric scooters with the necessary technology. This included cameras, electronics, and firmware, enabling remote operators to control scooters and bikes. They could either deliver them to riders or return them to designated parking areas. In response to the increased demand for delivery services during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tortoise adapted its technology to create a grocery-shuttling cart.

He noted that consumer expectations have evolved rapidly. “Following the launch of [Amazon] Prime, two-day delivery became the standard, and seven days felt excessively long.” Now, even two-day delivery feels slow, as expectations are shifting towards same-day service.

Tortoise’s current strategy involves securing contracts with large retailers. Simultaneously, they continue to collaborate with online commerce platforms. This dual approach allows them to serve both large chains and smaller, independent stores.

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