Technology

Kroger taps ClusterTruck for dark kitchen partnership

Photo by istock.com

October 15, 2020

The Kroger Co. is teaming up with ClusterTruck, a software platform for delivery-only kitchens, on Kroger Delivery Kitchen, a service that will serve both urban and suburban markets.

The goal is delivery of freshly prepared meals off multiple menus from one central scratch kitchen, according to a press release.

It is initially rolling out in Carmel, Indiana, Indianapolis and Columbus Ohio. The two partners are jointly launching a fourth kitchen in Carmel. King Soopers Delivery kitchen, also run by ClusterTruck, will serve Denver customers, according to the release.

"The way our customers order and receive meals is evolving, and ClusterTruck's innovative culinary and digital design is cracking the code for the future of profitable meal delivery," Kroger CIO Yael Cosset said in the release. "Kroger is leveraging ClusterTruck's advanced technology to ensure our customers don't have to sacrifice quality and value for convenience when it comes to meal delivery. Kroger Delivery Kitchen Powered by ClusterTruck will allow our customers to access restaurant-quality fresh and delicious meals like never before and without having to pay excessive service or delivery fees."

Customers in Carmel, Indianapolis and Columbus delivery zones can go to KrogerDeliveryKitchen.com to place orders or download the ClusterTruck app. Customers in Denver can visit KingSoopersDeliveryKitchen.com.

ClusterTruck, co-founded in 2015, launched its first kitchen in 2016. Its dark kitchens are powered by a software system that uses custom algorithms to optimize kitchen and delivery operations. This approach ensures that nearly every order is in the hands of the customer within 7 minutes of the meal's preparation. The average time between placing an order and a customer receiving their food is less than 30 minutes.

"Our recipe for success has been a blend of cutting-edge software combined with high-quality ingredients and delicious variety," Chris Baggott, ClusterTruck co-founder and CEO, said in the release. "This winning combination has allowed us to thrill customers across the country, while achieving profitability. We're excited to partner with Kroger to redefine the food experience for their valued customers."