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Pizza Hut, FedEx may begin bot delivery tests this summer

February 27, 2019

Pizza Hut and FedEx are teaming up to "explore" using the delivery company's autonomous delivery device, SameDay Bot, for pizza delivery. The bot will be tested in a role that supports existing delivery staff, according to a press release. 

The companies said the bot may improve efficiency of delivery, and that tests could begin as early as this summer. 

"As we look to advance our business, and continue providing experiences that our customers deserve, exploring technology solutions that allow our team members to do what they do on an even greater scale is critical to our success," said Pizza Hut U.S. Chief Customer and Operations Officer Nicolas Burquier in the release. "Testing of the SameDay Bot with FedEx is just one more way we're looking to the future of delivery at Pizza Hut."

Pizza Hut said it sees itself as an innovator and leader in the area of using tech in delivery, including what the brand said was the first foray into online ordering in 1994.

"The FedEx SameDay Bot is an innovation being developed to change the face of local delivery and help brands, like Pizza Hut, address the growing needs of their customers," said FedEx EVP and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Brie Carere, in the release. "The FedEx bot looks to redefine delivery for this market in a manner that is cost-effective, safe and environmentally friendly."

The FedEx SameDay Bot is in development by FedEx and the DEKA Research and Development Corp., and is equipped with proprietary technology that allows it to navigate unpaved surfaces, curbs, and even steps. 

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