JD.com debuts robot food outlet in China

JD.com (9618) opened its first self-operated food delivery outlet in Beijing last Sunday, marking a fresh push into the sector even as China’s months-long subsidy war among delivery platforms shows signs of cooling.

The e-commerce giant reportedly plans to invest billions to build a new supply chain and aims to open 10,000 similar outlets nationwide within the next three years.

The store uses robotic cooking machines to prepare meals on-site. Customers can order online for delivery or self-pickup, but no dine-in option is offered, according to mainland media reports.

Currently, the outlet is available exclusively on JD’s delivery platform and has yet to appear on rival services Ele.me and Meituan (3690). Prices range from 10 to 30 yuan (HK$10.94 to HK$32.82).

STAFF REPORTER