Robots come in all shapes and sizes, but RoboCafe is bringing a unique twist to Huntsville: a robot that crafts your morning coffee.
Overcoming challenges in starting RoboCafe
“The technology was easier to develop than starting the business,” said Co-Founder Pranith Vinay Kumar Salkineedi. He came up with the idea a year after graduating from the University of Alabama-Huntsville in 2023. Like many startups, RoboCafe faced significant challenges. “We struggled to get the business license, food permits, and find a suitable spot,” Salkineedi explained.
From food truck to future storefront
RoboCafe operates as a food truck but plans to expand into a storefront. “The truck lets us test the concept without paying high rent for a permanent space,” Salkineedi said. Before committing to a storefront, they want customer feedback to refine the experience.
Meet Mary: The coffee-making robot
Customer service inspired the creation of their coffee-making robot, Mary. “We found it hard to manage the coffee-making process and provide good customer service at the same time,” Salkineedi said. Mary simplifies the process using automatic syrup pumps, ice makers, and espresso machines.
“This is our seventh iteration, and it finally works as intended,” he added. Mary’s mainframe is programmed to precisely control switches and pumps.
RoboCafe aims to stay ahead of the A.I. curve. “A.I. is booming everywhere,” Salkineedi said. For now, the menu includes iced beverages, but they plan to add hot drinks, juices, and more soon.
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