Grubhub’s campus dining tech, linked to over 360 colleges, now serves 4.5M students. It offers robot delivery, reusable containers, and Amazon's Just Walk Out tech at select schools, enhancing convenience and sustainability in college dining.
Grubhub’s integration with college meal plans is now active at more than 360 campuses, serving about 4.5M students. This expansion includes features like robot delivery and reusable containers, transforming campus dining into a tech-driven experience. The Ohio State University, with 30-40 on-campus dining options, was an early adopter. OSU’s partnership with Grubhub started in 2022, integrating robot meal delivery, which has already fulfilled hundreds of thousands of orders. This tech upgrade is particularly useful on large campuses where navigating multiple dining venues can be challenging.
Grubhub’s platform isn’t just about ordering food; it offers an array of features that enhance the student dining experience. The app links directly to students’ meal credits, usable at both on-campus dining venues and local restaurants. In 2023, the company rolled out Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology at several partner schools, allowing students to scan a QR code, pick up items at campus stores, and skip the checkout process. This convenience saves time and streamlines daily routines, making it easier for students to grab meals between classes.
Grubhub’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its ReusePass program, which offers students the option to use zero-waste reusable containers tracked by the app. This feature aligns with the growing eco-consciousness among students and supports schools' sustainability initiatives. Everything from the checkout to the return of containers is handled via the app, providing a seamless and environmentally friendly dining option. As Rob DelaCruz, VP and GM of Grubhub Campus Business, noted, "Our app goes much further than mobile ordering," engaging students in a flexible and green dining experience.
In 2024 alone, Grubhub added 60 new campus partners, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Tulane University, and Howard University. Grubhub’s rapid expansion continues as they aim to make dining more efficient and enjoyable for students. The company also introduced Ultimate kiosks, which estimate wait times, reducing lines at dining halls and freeing up staff for other tasks. Looking ahead, Grubhub plans to further customize the app, integrating dietary restrictions and allergies into the ordering process, ensuring even more personalized service.
How will Grubhub’s tech impact student dining?
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