Chipotle has unveiled its latest innovation in food preparation: a robot called the “Autocado,” designed specifically to peel, core, and cut avocados by the case. The prototype, which is part of Chipotle’s use of cobots (collaborative robots), is intended to streamline the guacamole preparation process. Workers still mash the avocados by hand, but the Autocado drastically reduces the labor involved in prepping the fruit.
Currently being tested at Chipotle’s Huntington Beach location (20972 Magnolia St.), the company claims the robot can process an avocado in just 26 seconds, freeing up employees for other tasks and enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the “size agnostic” design allows the machine to adjust itself automatically to accommodate avocados of varying sizes.
Meanwhile, in Corona del Mar, Calif., the Augmented Makeline is being tested to build bowls and salads using automated technology. With about 65% of Chipotle’s digital orders being for bowls or salads, this system improves efficiency and order accuracy. Employees still operate the main makeline for other items such as burritos and tacos, but automation ensures a consistent experience for digital customers.
Chipotle’s Chief Customer and Technology Officer, Curt Garner, said, “These devices are designed to strengthen our operations, enhancing both our team’s experience and our guests’ dining experience.”
The company is gathering feedback from both employees and customers as it plans the next phase of its automation strategy.
This move highlights Chipotle’s broader efforts to integrate automation in its restaurants, with the goal of enhancing food prep while maintaining the high culinary standards that customers expect.
