Jamba's smoothie robot comes to hospitals

Jamba is bringing its smoothie-making robot to hospitals.

The first of its automated kiosks to hit the healthcare circuit is open now in the cafeteria of Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta. Patients, visitors and staff can get freshly made, customizable smoothies around the clock. 

It’s Jamba’s eighth automated outlet in the U.S. The others are in retail stores, college campuses and travel centers.

The kiosks are a partnership between the 800-unit smoothie chain and robotics company Blendid. 

“Blendid's technology has created a new venue type for our brand, enabling us to increase accessibility to current and new Jamba fans,” said Jamba President Geoff Henry in a statement. “We're proud to have the opportunity to provide healthcare workers with a refreshing and delicious snacking option.”

Customers can get a variety of smoothies made to order in under three minutes. They can also order ahead using Belndid’s app. The kiosk, which features a robotic arm, can make nine smoothies at once and up to 45 custom blends in an hour.

The Grady location sports the bright new design unveiled by Jamba in October, which includes a pair of googly eyes atop the robot arm. It is operated by Sodexo, which also runs the Jamba by Blendid outlet at Georgia College & State University.

“We've seen rising demand for fresh, customized, contactless food options and are committed to providing innovative dining solutions,” said Dyiesha Kerr, general manager at Sodexo, in a statement. "Based on our experience launching our first kiosk at a college campus, we are confident that the Jamba by Blendid robotic kiosk will become a welcomed addition to Grady Memorial Hospital and a coveted on-the-go, 24/7 food option.”