Re-Up, an AI-powered convenience store, to deploy autonomous kitchens

April 4, 2024
Re-Up is redefining gas stations with cutting-edge technology by installing autonomous robotic chefs powered by Nala Robotics.

Re-Up, the world’s first AI-powered convenience store, redefining gas stations with cutting-edge technology, announced that the company will be installing autonomous robotic chefs, at a variety of locations, powered by Nala Robotics, an AI technology company revolutionizing the culinary industry.

The Wingman by Nala Robotics is an autonomous fry station that can easily be added or configured to any restaurant or commercial foodservice operation. Re-Up will leverage Nala Robotics' advanced artificial intelligence technology to enhance its food service offerings, enabling customers to enjoy freshly prepared, fully customizable, fried chicken, french fries and other menu items on demand, quickly, easily and without human intervention.

The announcement comes on the heels of Re-Up’s grand opening of its inaugural location in Melbourne, Florida, located a mile-and-a-half from Melbourne Orlando International Airport.

Nala Robotics' AI-enabled virtual kitchens are equipped with advanced sensors, precision cooking mechanisms and machine learning algorithms, allowing its robotic chefs to autonomously prepare a wide range of menu items with consistency and efficiency. In addition to on-premises ordering via multi-modal kiosk, restaurants can create virtual storefronts for remote transactions through a website or online food ordering and delivery platform. The integration of The Wingman into Re-Up's convenience stores will enable faster service, reduced wait times and enhanced food quality, improving the overall customer experience.

“As the c-store for the new generation - offering clean and healthy alternatives to the traditional convenience retail experience, we are thrilled to partner with Nala Robotics,” Michael Salafia, founder and managing director of Re-Up, said in the announcement. "By harnessing the power of AI, we are able to provide our customers with convenient, personalized, and safe shopping and dining experiences. We believe this groundbreaking concept will revolutionize the way people shop and fuel up."

Narendra Manney, co-founder and president of Re-Up, said in the announcement: "Our expansion efforts at Re-Up are proceeding at an accelerated pace. We aim to procure 25-30 additional stores by the end of 2024 and more than 200 stores in the coming years. 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."

Ajay Sunkara, CEO of Nala Robotics, added in the announcement: "Our agreement with Re-Up underscores both companies’ commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction and will deliver better outcomes for both operator and consumer. 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. At the same time, customers get to choose from an assortment of great-tasting food items just the way they like it.”