Following a successfully completed test phase, REWE is bringing the autonomous delivery bots back onto Hamburg's streets - this time in the Barmbek district. The rolling shopping baskets are part of an innovative pilot project that shows how modern technology can make everyday life easier.
Around 10,000 households within a radius of 1.5 to two kilometres around the REWE store at Holsteinischer Kamp 53 can now order their groceries conveniently via a new app in REWE design and have them delivered Monday to Saturday between 8 am and 9 pm.
REWE had already tested the delivery bots in Hamburg-Eimsbüttel in 2023 - with a focus on technical feasibility. The result: the concept is not only feasible, but also impresses with its efficiency and customer friendliness. "After the first, successful test phase, we are now looking forward to delighting our customers with the fast and autonomous service of the delivery bot 2.0. The new delivery bot not only impresses with longer delivery times; the product range has also been significantly expanded," says Andreas Persigehl, Chairman of the Management Board of REWE Region Nord.
The movement radius of the robotic vehicles, which weigh around 35 kilograms and are slightly larger than a crate of beer, is 1.5 to two kilometres. The vehicles manoeuvre along the pavement at less than six kilometres per hour and bring the desired items home within an hour. 360-degree cameras and artificial intelligence ensure that there are no accidents. The regular collection range is available, but with restrictions: For example, drinks crates, frozen products, service counters, meat and fish products requiring refrigeration and over-the-counter medicines are excluded for the time being. The REWE delivery bots have a capacity of 32 litres and can run for 18 hours on a single battery charge. Once the order has been received digitally, it is picked in the REWE store and sent on its way.
Customised solutions for individual needs
The project is an example of how REWE is responding to changing shopping behaviour - because customers' needs are becoming increasingly individual. REWE is therefore developing and testing offers that are geared towards customers' lifestyles.with the delivery bot 2.0, REWE is sending another strong signal for innovation, Sustainability and customer proximity - and shows how future technology can enrich everyday life today.
Strong partnership for sustainable innovation
The technology of the autonomous delivery vehicles comes from the partner company Starship, which specialises in self-driving delivery robots. The delivery bots are TÜV-certified to ensure the highest safety standards. The app that customers use to order is part of REWE's Pickitoo platform and makes it easy to select, pay for and deliver their purchases. Starship robots are battery-powered and therefore emission-free. An average delivery consumes as little energy as making a cup of tea. As a result, they not only offer a convenient alternative to the car, but also relieve local traffic and reduce emissions at the same time.