Robotic Cook Coming to AI-Powered Gas Station

Convenience store chain Re-Up has announced that it is installing a chicken wing-frying robotic chef at its Melbourne, Florida location.

According to developer Nala Robotics, the Wingman robot is the “world’s first fully automatic robotic chef”, using AI and sensor technology to prepare menu items autonomously.

In a video accompanying the announcement, the Wingman is shown preparing french fries and chicken wings, covering them in sauce and frying them in hot oil, before serving them to customers. 

A multi-fryer configuration means the robot can individually monitor and cook each basket.

"The Wingman doesn’t get sick, can work around the clock and can cook any dish efficiently all the time, improving on quality and saving on labor costs,” said Ajay Sunkara, CEO of Nala Robotics

Re-Up said integrating  the Wingman into its convenience stores will “enable faster service, reduced wait times, and enhanced food quality, improving the overall customer experience.”

The announcement follows Re-Up opening its inaugural location in Melbourne, Florida, 1.5 miles from Melbourne Orlando International Airport.

According to Narendra Manney, Re-Up’s president, the convenience store chain aims to open 25-30 additional stores by the end of this year, and more than 200 in the coming years, with robotics and automation tools integrated into the new sites.

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"Our expansion efforts at Re-Up are proceeding at an accelerated pace,” Manney said. "The integration of robotics kitchens stands as a pivotal strategy in our modernization initiative, enabling us to enhance operational efficiency and deliver seamless services while upholding unwavering quality standards around the clock."