Robot takeover: the latest developments in robot delivery on college campusesRobot takeover: the latest developments in robot delivery on college campuses

Robots seem to be the hot topic in recent technology news for college dining operations. Robot delivery isn't entirely new of course, but its progress is notable. George Mason University is credited with bringing delivery robots to the college and university space, in 2019 and the delivery method has continued to grow in the past few years. Starship Technologies, the biggest robot delivery provider in the space, currently offers the service at 55 universities.

This year, robot delivery is getting more sustainable, more college campuses continue to launch the concept and more tech companies are entering the space. Here’s a look at the latest in robot delivery news for college dining operations.

Starship Robots arrive at Colorado State University

Starship Technologies’ delivery robots are well known in college dining, and they just added another university to their roster—Colorado State University. The robots are now roaming campus and diners can now get food delivered from select on-campus eateries, by the hands (well, more like by the wheels) of Starships’ zero-emission robots.

The robots are battery operated, and the average robot delivery consumes as little energy as making one cup of coffee, making it a more sustainable alternative than traditional delivery. Each robot has separate compartments for hot and cold food, and they are able to carry the equivalent of three shopping bags.

“Robot delivery is the next wave of technology in food delivery, and CSU will be at the forefront,” said Lucas Miller, director of residential dining services at CSU, in a statement.  “Delivery robots will not only bring a new service to the CSU community, but it will also provide hands-on experience with new technologies for the students who will manage and maintain the robots.”

A CSU student actually worked directly with Starship Technologies to prepare for the launch. Tevis Parent, a sophomore computer engineering major, worked as a robot technician, focusing on identifying, troubleshooting and fixing issues with the robots.

“My ultimate goal is to design and build satellites,” said Parent. “So, working on these electronic circuits develops my diagnostic abilities and my knowledge of electrical components and systems – as well as the experience of working for an international autonomous robotic delivery company opens the doors to other opportunities in the technology space.”

To place an order, diners can use the Grubhub app where they can also track the robot on its journey, they can expect their delivery to be completed quickly, even just a few minutes, depending on the items ordered.

Robots help to reduce climate impact at George Mason University

While robot delivery is already more sustainable than traditional delivery methods, Starship is taking it a step further with the help of reusable container company, Topanga.io. The two companies are working together to give diners the option for food to be packaged in reusable containers, for mobile pickup or kiosk orders. The initiative is first going to be rolled out at George Mason University, but the two companies plan on launching the service at additional Starship campuses. The service will also be available for robot deliveries in the future.

Topanga’s ReusePass program is fully integrated with the Starship app, and it is as simple as choosing the reusable packaging option when placing an order. Students will also be able to track the containers, allowing them to see which they currently have and what needs to be returned. The packaging is then thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before being put back into circulation.

“At Mason Dining, sustainability is a top priority, and this seamless integration makes it easier than ever for our students to choose environmentally responsible dining options,” said Roshonda Alexander, Sodexo retail general manager at George Mason University, in a statement. “We believe this will be a great success, furthering our commitment to a greener campus.”

Topanga’s ReusePass program will be live on more than 65 college campuses this year. During the 2023-2024 academic year, the program served 1.2 million meals in reusable containers with an average return rate sitting above 97%. This helped divert 123,500 pounds of waste from going to the landfill.

“Starship’s technology has empowered campus communities to offer sustainable food delivery solutions, making our partnership a natural extension of their commitment to sustainable dining,” said Page Schult, CEO at the reusable container company. “Topanga’s ReusePass integration with the Starship app and kiosks provides students with a seamless way to embrace sustainability without sacrificing convenience. It’s a win-win-win for campuses, students, and the environment.”

Avride and GrubHub team up to expand robot delivery on campuses

Another tech company that offers delivery robots is Avride, and they recently teamed up with Grubhub to expand their reach.

The Ohio State University cannot get enough robot delivery, it seems. The university, which already offers robot delivery through Starship, now has a fleet of 100 robots from Avride. These robots have a spacious compartment that allows students to order anything from a quick snack to full meals. The robots can navigate delivery, even through challenging weather conditions. They also feature customizable LED panels with animated designs, which can be customized to reflect the campus community.

“Our robots have already proven their value in campus environments, delivering convenience and delight to students,” said Dmitry Polishchuk, CEO of Avride, in statement. “We’re thrilled to be working with Grubhub to scale this success and expect to see hundreds of our robots serving campuses already in 2025.”

Grubhub has offered robot delivery to its campus partners since 2021, and this new partnership will help the company bring student’s favorite delivery couriers to more universities.