Nommi Robot: Automated Food Bowl Creation - Nommi

The Rise of Restaurant Automation and Nommi's Expansion

Given the ongoing challenges restaurants are experiencing with labor shortages, restaurant owners are increasingly exploring automated solutions. Coupled with heightened concerns regarding food safety during a global pandemic, the current environment presents a particularly opportune moment for companies specializing in food robotics.

Nommi and C3 Partnership for Global Rollout

Recognizing this trend, Nommi, a Los Angeles-based company, has announced a strategic partnership with C3 (Creating Culinary Communities). This collaboration is poised to facilitate the deployment of up to 1,000 of Nommi’s robotic kiosks to various locations, including real estate properties and college campuses worldwide.

The range of food items suitable for full automation remains limited. Nommi has strategically focused on food bowls, similar to pizza, as they represent a relatively standardized and contained food delivery system ideal for robotic execution.

How the Nommi Robotic Kiosk Works

The company’s core product is essentially a streamlined kiosk equipped with a touchscreen interface. This allows customers to fully customize their meal selections.

The machine efficiently prepares noodle, grain, and salad bowls in as little as three minutes. It boasts a capacity for 330 bowls and lids, and can simultaneously prepare multiple orders.

Completed bowls are stored in designated “lockers” capable of holding up to 21 items. Customers retrieve their orders by scanning a QR code.

Collaboration with Iron Chef Morimoto

The partnership with C3 also includes a collaboration with renowned Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. His Sa’Moto brand products will be featured on the machines, ensuring 24/7 availability.

“Nommi’s key strength lies in its exceptional adaptability, benefiting both brands and consumers alike,” stated Buck Jordan, president and co-founder, in a press release. “Aligning with an innovative platform such as C3 expands access to diverse revenue streams and a wider customer base. Both organizations are pioneering changes within the food industry, and this partnership is exceptionally well-timed.”

Funding and Future Growth

Nommi is currently seeking to secure up to $20 million in seed funding. This effort is being supported by Wavemaker Labs, an incubator with a proven track record in the robotics sector, having previously supported companies like Miso and Future Acres.

Update: It has been clarified that Nommi is presently aiming to raise $20 million in funding.