Photo: Disney
A New Jersey company, RoboBurger, has clinched a $1.5 million investment deal on ABC's "Shark Tank". The Newark-based startup, founded by Audley Wilson, Dan Braido, and Andy Siegel, impressed the Sharks with their innovative burger-making vending machine, securing a nine percent stake in their company from two investor judges.
RoboBurger's founders took to the Shark Tank stage with a clear vision: to revolutionize the fast-food industry with the world's first fully autonomous burger vending robot. Their machine promises freshly made burgers, customized to each customer's liking, and served hot within minutes. Initially, the panel members expressed skepticism regarding the viability of RoboBurger's business model, questioning whether a vending machine could effectively replicate the quality and taste of a traditionally cooked burger.
Despite the initial doubts, the demonstration of the RoboBurger machine's capabilities won over the Sharks. The co-founders explained how their invention combines culinary skill with advanced robotics to deliver a cost-effective and convenient solution for serving hot meals. By minimizing labor and rent costs traditionally associated with quick-service restaurants, RoboBurger represented a lucrative opportunity for investors.
The $1.5 million investment marks a significant milestone for RoboBurger, validating its potential to disrupt the fast-food sector. With its compact, kitchen-in-a-vending-machine format, RoboBurger aims to expand its presence across varied settings, including airports, malls, and office buildings. The company's success on "Shark Tank" not only secures the financial backing needed for growth but also highlights the increasing interest in food service automation.