Albertsons Companies Launches Pilot of Remote-Controlled Delivery Cart in Northern California

Rhea-AI Summary

Albertsons Companies has partnered with Tortoise to pilot a remote-controlled, zero-emission delivery cart in Northern California. This innovative cart can transport up to 120 pounds of groceries securely and contactlessly. As part of the pilot, Safeway associates will test the service in select neighborhoods, with the cart being remotely operated at an average speed of 3 mph. Albertsons aims to enhance its e-commerce offerings, having recently introduced pickup lockers and automated kiosks in Chicago, reflecting its commitment to customer convenience and technological disruption.

Positive

• Partnership with Tortoise enhances delivery services.
• Zero-emission delivery cart aligns with sustainability goals.
• Pilot program in Northern California could improve customer engagement.
• Innovative technology may lead to increased market competitiveness.

Negative

• None.

Albertsons Companies announced today that it has partnered with Tortoise, an automated logistics company focused on last-mile solutions, to pilot its remote-controlled zero-emission delivery cart in Northern California.

Albertsons Companies and Safeway are piloting a remote-controlled zero-emission delivery cart from Tortoise in Northern California. The cart can hold up to 120 pounds of groceries in four lockable containers for a contactless delivery experience. (Photo: Business Wire)

“Our team is obsessed with trying new and disruptive technologies that can bring more convenience for our customers,” said Chris Rupp, EVP and Chief Customer and Digital Officer. “We are willing to quickly test, learn, and implement winning innovations that ensure we are offering the easiest and most convenient shopping experience in the entire industry.”

The Safeway cart, powered by Tortoise, is equipped with a camera and a speaker and is guided through the neighborhood by a remote operator. The cart can hold up to 120 pounds of groceries in four lockable containers for a contactless delivery experience.

When the cart arrives at a home, the customer receives a text to come outside and pick up their groceries. The carts are specifically designed to deliver groceries and parcels in a safe manner – at an average speed of 3 mph and powered 100% by an electric battery.

Currently, the service is open for testing with Safeway associates in select Northern California neighborhoods. In these early stages, a friendly escort will accompany the cart as part of the pilot process (and getting their daily steps in at the same time!).

Albertsons Cos. continues to bring innovation and disruption to its growing e-Commerce business to make the shopping experience more convenient for customers. In Chicago, the company recently announced that it is piloting pickup lockers and an automated pickup kiosk at select Jewel-Osco locations.

About Albertsons Companies

Albertsons Companies is a leading food and drug retailer in the United States. The company operates stores across 34 states and the District of Columbia under 20 well-known banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme, Tom Thumb, Randalls, United Supermarkets, Pavilions, Star Market, Haggen and Carrs. Albertsons Cos. is committed to helping people across the country live better lives by making a meaningful difference, neighborhood by neighborhood. In 2019 alone, along with the Albertsons Companies Foundation, the company gave $225 million in food and financial support. In 2020, Albertsons Cos. made a $53 million commitment to community hunger relief efforts and a $5 million commitment to organizations supporting social justice. These efforts have helped millions of people in the areas of hunger relief, education, cancer research and treatment, social justice and programs for people with disabilities and veterans' outreach.

About Tortoise

Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Mountain View, CA, Tortoise automates logistics for light electric vehicles like delivery bots & shared scooters, including their first-of-its kind remote-controlled grocery & parcel delivery bot, the Tortoise Cart. Tortoise works with partners worldwide to provide the most cost-effective, zero-emissions way to safely move anything from A to B. Visit their website at www.tortoise.dev.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210305005061/en/

FAQ

What is Albertsons Companies' new partnership about?

Albertsons Companies has partnered with Tortoise to pilot a remote-controlled, zero-emission delivery cart for grocery deliveries in Northern California.

How does the Tortoise delivery cart operate?

The Tortoise delivery cart is remotely controlled, can carry up to 120 pounds, and operates at an average speed of 3 mph for safe, contactless deliveries.

What are the benefits of using the zero-emission delivery cart?

The zero-emission delivery cart provides a sustainable solution for grocery deliveries, enhancing convenience and safety for customers.

Where is the pilot program for the delivery cart taking place?

The pilot program for the delivery cart is taking place in select neighborhoods of Northern California.

What other innovations has Albertsons introduced recently?

Albertsons has recently introduced pickup lockers and automated kiosks in Chicago to enhance its e-commerce services.