Co-op has announced the launch of robot deliveries in Wakefield.

The service is in partnership with Starship Technologies and follows the roll-out of similar services in Cambridge, Leeds and Greater Manchester.

Delivery by robot will initially be available to around 13,000 residents across over 6,500 households. Customers can order through the Starship food app, with groceries delivered “from store to door in minutes.”

Starship’s robots, which are battery powered and travel at the speed of a pedestrian, use a combination of sensors, artificial intelligence and machine learning to travel on pavements and navigate obstacles.

Customers can watch the robot travel in real-time via an interactive map. They will also be able to choose from three robot characters: Sir Lance-a-bot, Gizmo and Sunshine, with each greeting customers in their own unique way, as well as a song for their robot to play on arrival.

“Co-op stores are well placed in the heart of local communities to provide quick, easy and convenient home deliveries - whether a full shop or last-minute top-ups,” said Chris Conway, Co-op e-commerce director.

“We are committed to exploring new and innovative ways to increase access to our products and services, and delighted to be able to roll-out autonomous robot deliveries to provide additional online flexibility, choice and convenience for our members and customers in Wakefield.”

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