Restaurants
Smart lockers revolutionize Rider University campus dining
The partnership between Apex and Rider University is a prime example of how innovative technology can be used to enhance the student experience and improve campus operations.
October 9, 2024 by Sandra Carpenter — Editor, Networld Media Group
In a move aimed at enhancing student experience and streamlining campus operations, Rider University Dining Services has partnered with Jersey Mike's Subs to implement a state-of-the-art contactless dining system. The partnership, which began in 2019, has transformed the way students access food on campus, offering convenience, efficiency and a touch of the future.
Rider University students can place orders for Jersey Mike's Subs via their mobile device and pick up at smart-lockers in the dining hall at their leisure. This allows students not only to bypass long order lines, but also to manage their limited time between classes.
Peter Ehlin, district manager of Gourmet Dining, told Vending Times in a Zoom interview that the smart lockers allow campus dining to provide efficiency.
"Basically, the student will order online via Grubhub or any app or through our cashier system which we have at our market," Ehlin said. "Then back of the house prepares it, and then we expedite it and, basically, put it in a locker system. The student will then get a signal or a code saying that, 'Hey, my order is ready.' They will actually swipe their ID that's on their mobile app, open up a locker, and there they are. They're ready to go."
Smart locker network
At the heart of the partnership is a network of smart lockers strategically placed in Rider's food court.
The lockers, powered by Apex's technology, allow students to place mobile orders through Grubhub and retrieve their food from designated lockers using their student IDs. This contactless system eliminates the need for traditional lines and cashiers, providing a seamless and efficient dining experience.
 |
Photo: Apex Order Pickup Solutions |
"We were initially hesitant about the concept of a ghost kitchen, but the partnership with Rider University and Apex has been a huge success," George Kuzma, vice president of business development at Gourmet Dining, told Vending Times in a Zoom interview. "The smart lockers have allowed us to expand our offerings and provide students with a more convenient and enjoyable dining experience."
One of the key benefits of the smart locker system is its ability to accommodate a variety of food options, from sandwiches and salads to hot meals and snacks. The flexibility has allowed Rider University to partner with popular brands like Jersey Mike's, offering students a diverse range of dining choices.
In addition to improving convenience and efficiency, the smart locker system has also played a crucial role in enhancing Rider University's campus appeal. The futuristic design of the lockers and the contactless technology have created a sense of excitement and innovation, attracting prospective students and contributing to a positive campus atmosphere.
Beyond the basics: The impact of the partnership
The smart locker tech at Rider University has had a far-reaching impact on the campus community. Here are some key benefits:
- Enhanced student experience: Rider students have responded positively to the smart lockers. One of the biggest challenges for university students, especially first-year students, is time management. Mobile ordering in partnership with these lockers allow students to see in real-time how long it will take for their food to be ready. "The smart lockers have significantly improved the dining experience for our students," Andrew Pignataro, assistant VP of auxiliary services at Rider University, told Vending times in a Zoom interview. "By eliminating long lines and wait times, students can quickly and easily grab a meal and get back to their studies or extracurricular activities."
- Increased efficiency and cost savings: In addition to helping students with time management, the lockers also streamline the ordering process for the dining staff and frees up space and resources in the dining hall. "The contactless system has streamlined campus dining operations, reducing labor costs and improving efficiency," said Kuzma. "This has allowed Rider University to allocate resources more effectively and focus on other priorities."
- Enhanced campus appeal: Pignataro said the aesthetics of the lockers is appealing to prospective students. During campus tours, guides find prospective students are drawn to the look of the lockers. "The futuristic design of the smart lockers and the contactless technology have created a sense of excitement and innovation on campus," said Pignataro. "This has helped to attract prospective students and improve the overall campus experience."
 |
Photo: Apex Order Pickup Solutions |
Future plans and innovations
As the partnership between Apex and Rider University continues to evolve, both are exploring opportunities to expand the capabilities of the smart locker system. Kuzma and Pignataro offered insight about the potential to expand the use of the lockers in the following ways:
- Campus ID card integration: Students could use their campus ID cards to access the lockers for a more convenient experience.
- Personalized recommendations: The lockers could suggest items based on students' previous purchases and preferences.
- Loyalty programs: A rewards program could incentivize repeat purchases and encourage student loyalty.
- Expansion to other services: The smart locker technology could be used to deliver various items to students, like textbooks, laundry, or packages.
Rider University's utilization of Apex smart lockers to streamline food ordering and pickup is a prime example of how innovative technology can be used to enhance the student experience and improve campus operations. As the partnership continues to evolve, it is expected to have a lasting impact on the future of higher education.
About Sandra Carpenter
Related Media
Subscribe
Get the latest news and resources from Kiosk Marketplace.
