Donatos Pizza Embraces Automation with Pizza-Making Robot

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Donatos Pizza, a family-owned pizza chain, is embracing new technologies to streamline its operations and delivery services. The company has started testing self-driving delivery cars and has opened a 24/7 robot-run restaurant at the John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Donatos has also hired a new menu innovation leader, Hayley Kianoff Satler, to explore food trends and cater to customer preferences. Additionally, the company is expanding its footprint, opening new locations in Panama City, Florida, Washington, D.C., and South Bend, Indiana.

Why it matters

Donatos' adoption of automation and robotics in its pizza-making and delivery operations reflects the broader trend of the food industry embracing technology to improve efficiency, consistency, and customer convenience. As consumer expectations for fast and reliable food delivery continue to rise, companies like Donatos are investing in innovative solutions to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of their customers.

The details

Donatos has partnered with Ohio State University to test self-driving delivery cars, aiming to streamline the last-mile delivery process. The company has also opened a new restaurant at the Columbus airport that is entirely run by a robot, allowing it to operate 24/7 and cater to travelers' late-night cravings. To further enhance its menu, Donatos has hired Hayley Kianoff Satler, a veteran of Wendy's, to lead its menu innovation efforts and stay attuned to emerging food trends.

• Donatos started testing self-driving delivery cars and opened its robot-run airport restaurant last year.
• Donatos has recently expanded into new markets, including Panama City, Florida, Washington, D.C., and South Bend, Indiana.

What’s next

Donatos plans to continue expanding its footprint, particularly in the East and Southeast regions of the United States, throughout the rest of the year.