Kiwibots undergo upgrades

Camden Perkins, PerkinsC1@Findlay.edu

For two years, the University of Findlay has utilized Kiwibots — autonomous robots designed to deliver food on campus — marking an effort to streamline dining services through automation. The initiative, in partnership with Sodexo, allows students, faculty, and staff to order meals via a mobile app with Kiwibots delivering to designated locations. 

The decision to implement the Kiwibots was aimed at increasing convenience and providing an innovative dining solution. Sodexo presented the university with the opportunity and David Harr, the University’s Director of Dining Services, noted that the Kiwibots “pay for themselves along the way,” meaning there was no initial investment on the University’s behalf. 

Many students have embraced the convenience of having meals delivered, particularly during peak dining hours. The robots also gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the demand for contactless services increased. 

“The Kiwibots each year have been growing,” David Harr said. “However, there have been some challenges. The biggest hurdle is getting students to consistently use the Everyday app. We need everyone to sign up using their university email, so they can claim their five free deliveries, but that’s been a struggle.”  

Harr also brought up another struggle that the Kiwibots face. 

“Another challenge is the competition between Kiwibot services and popular delivery platforms. like DoorDash and Grubhub,” Harr said. “Many students don’t realize that using Kiwibots is the more affordable option,” Harr said.  

Yet, many students still enjoy the convenience Kiwibots offer. 

“I think the biggest advantage of Kiwibots is the proximity and timing,” UF student Zach DeWitt said. “It’s a resource exclusive to students, unlike services like DoorDash or Uber Eats, which anyone in the area can use.”  

A student who interns for Sodexo is tasked with overseeing the daily operations of the Kiwibot fleet, addressing maintenance needs and operational challenges. Harr’s team gathers user feedback to improve the service, with adjustments made to delivery routes and times based on input. Each night the Kiwibots come back inside and are charged, along with service to ensure proper functionality for any weather and any circumstance that may come their way.  

The Kiwibots continue to undergo changes and upgrades. 

“The Kiwibots have all been rebuilt to be stronger and last longer,” Harr said. “Soon, we will see new wraps and even a flag going on the Kiwibots. A new antenna will be installed on campus to better their GPS allowing for better mapping out of the University and response.”  

Harr also included that there will be a new charging station for the Kiwibots to hook up to a charging port outside at multiple locations on campus.