©Botrista
Botrista Technology has secured $10 million in a Series A funding round, as it looks to make craft beverages more accessible via its robotic automation.
The firm’s DrinkBot offers an automated craft drink solution by combining dispensing, industrial engineering and software expertise.
Tailored for foodservice companies, the automated drink dispenser offers a variety of craft beverages including infused teas and lattes, flavoured lemonades and iced coffees, without the need for a full bar.
After an order is placed via a touch screen, DrinkBot’s blender will then dispense and mix drinks in less than 20 seconds – which reportedly simulate hand-shaken products.
In addition to blending technology, the robot barista features a cloud-based application called CloudBar with real-time data integration for multiple applications and tracking, including inventory replenishment, sales performance analysis and a user-friendly tutorial video.
Based in California, Botrista plans to use the funding to further ramp up deployment operations to roll out its DrinkBot nationally.
According to the robotics beverage maker, DrinkBot aims to help meet growing demand for craft beverages, quickly and reliably, with minimal space requirements and training.
The round – which brings the firm’s total amount raised to $16 million – was co-led by Purestone Capital and La Kaffa International, with participation from Sony Innovation Fund, Middleby Corporation and PIDC.
Sean Hsu, co-founder and CEO of Botrista, said: “While craft beverages are trending, it has become increasingly challenging for foodservice companies to meet demand due to labour shortages and lower staff retention. With nationwide expansion plans, these companies will have the opportunity to drive new revenue with the DrinkBot.”
Gen Tsuchikawa, chief investment manager for Sony Innovation Fund, added: “Botrista enables a wide range of freshly-crafted high quality drinks. Thanks to its highly integrated hardware and software approach, the DrinkBot unlocks new efficiencies and revenue opportunities. We look forward to Botrista accelerating its deployment momentum in the US and internationally.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024