Murphy USA tests automated White Castle food kiosks in select stores
Murphy USA (NYSE: MUSA) announced an initial rollout of an autonomous foodservice platform developed by Automated Retail Technologies (ART) in select larger-format stores, with White Castle serving as the launch brand partner.
The platform, called Just Baked, uses a touchscreen interface to allow customers to order hot food, which is prepared and delivered within approximately two minutes through a self-contained automated system. The unit is designed to operate without the space and labor requirements of a traditional commercial kitchen.
White Castle, founded in 1921 and described by the company as America's first fast-food hamburger chain, will be the first brand featured on the platform. The Columbus, Ohio-based chain currently operates 341 restaurants and sells frozen products through retail grocery stores nationwide.
"We're continually evaluating opportunities that create additional value for our customers while building on the strengths that have made Murphy USA successful," said Scott Woodward, Murphy USA Senior Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer. "We're encouraged by the opportunity to drive incremental inside sales, traffic and basket growth."
ART describes its platform as modular and capable of supporting multiple food brands over time. The company lists convenience stores, hotels, universities, airports, and workplaces among its target deployment locations.
Murphy USA operates more than 1,800 stores across 27 states, with most locations near Walmart Supercenters. The company employs approximately 16,900 people and serves an estimated two million customers daily under the Murphy USA, Murphy Express, and QuickChek brands.
