Nestlé Japan is using a humanoid robot to sell Nescafé machines as part of its ongoing effort to enhance brand engagement with consumers in Nescafé’s biggest market.
‘Pepper’ is the first robot in the world that is able to read and respond to human emotion. Equipped with the latest voice and emotion recognition technology, ‘Pepper’ is able to read people’s facial expressions and listen to their tone of voice to analyse how they’re feeling.
“Pepper will be able to explain Nescafé products and services and engage in conversation with consumers. I hope that this new consumer engagement model will expand across the world as an example of Japanese innovation” said Kohzoh Takaoka, president and CEO of Nestlé Japan.
Nestlé is planning to use the robot nationwide in around 1,000 stores by the end of 2015.
‘Pepper’ is produced by SoftBank Robotics and Aldebaran Robotics SAS, and is part of SoftBank Group’s ambition to take technology beyond factory floors.
“The dream to create an advanced consumer experience with ‘Pepper’ is now coming true. We hope that by providing people the opportunity to interact with a robot whilst shopping, we can help create experiences of wonder and delight for consumers” said Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Corporation.
Nestlé is planning to use the robot nationwide in around 1,000 stores by the end of 2015.