Donatos Pizza will open a fully autonomous restaurant in partnership with Appetronix
Appetronix and Donatos Pizza
Donatos Pizza, a premium U.S. pizza chain known for its Edge to Edge® toppings, is launching its first fully autonomous restaurant this month at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (Concourse B). Donatos and its sister company Agápe Automation partnered with Appetronix to create this innovative concept. It’s operated by HMSHost and will serve freshly made pizzas 24/7 via robotic technology, offering travelers speed, convenience, and quality.
This new Donatos location sets a precedent for how robotics and hospitality can blend to meet modern foodservice demands in high-traffic environments like airports.
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State-of-the-art robotics and data science technologies
The autonomous kitchen at this airport location of Donatos Pizza uses advanced AI and robotics to handle everything from order-taking to cooking and delivery. Customers can watch their pizzas being prepared in real time, adding an entertaining and transparent element to the experience. Donatos CEO Kevin King emphasizes that while the technology is groundbreaking, the focus remains on delivering delicious, generously topped pizzas.
The launch aligns with Donatos’ broader innovation strategy, aimed at transforming the pizza landscape. Executive Chairwoman Jane Grote Abell highlights the legacy of founder Jim Grote and the company’s continued commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
About Donatos Pizza
Donatos Pizza was founded in 1963 in Columbus, Ohio, and is still family-owned. The company operates over 175 stores and serves its signature pizzas in nearly 300 non-traditional locations like Red Robin restaurants. Donatos Pizza is known for its commitment to community, consistency, and innovation. Visit their franchise page.
About Appetronix
Appetronix Inc. (formerly SJW Robotics) is a foodtech company developing autonomous robotic kitchens for the restaurant industry. Their technology automates all kitchen functions, including cooking and cleaning, aiming to improve food quality and operational efficiency in locations where traditional kitchens aren’t feasible.
Website: Donatos Pizza & Appetronix
