Automated banana and pineapple unit forms part of marketer’s new in-store promotion at branch of Intermarché near Paris
Robots selling Fresh Del Monte bananas and pineapples to supermarket shoppers have made their second appearance in the space of a fortnight, this time at a branch of Intermarché on the outskirts of Paris, France.
As reported in late October, the company has been trialling Servi Plus automated units at three Jewel-Osco supermarkets in Chicago.
And now it has revealed it is working with Veneto-based BOB Robotics to test out a similar consumer-facing device in Europe.
Interestingly, an apparent issue with pineapples rolling off the robots’ shelves in the US seems to have been overcome with the addition of basket trays for the pineapples.
“For some time, we have been exploring how to make the fresh produce department more youthful, innovative, and interactive,” the group said in a LinkedIn post.
The robot is part of a broader in-store activation at Intermarché in Gif-sur-Yvette, around 20km south of the French capital.
“By combining multiple touchpoints, from in-store displays and tasting experiences to immersive video storytelling and our interactive BOB Robotics, we created a unique environment that brings consumers closer to the world of Del Monte.”
The company said its aim was to immerse shoppers in the products’ journey from its plantations to consumers’ tables.
It is also highlighting its partnership with Disney to celebrate the launch of Zootopia 2 film, inspiring families and younger generations “to embrace a healthy lifestyle in a playful and engaging way”.
