Karakuri

Karakuri is a London-based robotics company that develops automated kitchen systems for the food service industry. Founded in 2018 by Barney Wragg, Karakuri focuses on creating intelligent robotic solutions to improve food quality, consistency, and efficiency in quick-service restaurants (QSR) and fast-casual dining establishments. The company's flagship products include the /FRYR family of automated fry lines and the Semblr automated meal assembly system.

The /FRYR210, launched in October 2022, is designed to optimize french fry production, capable of producing up to 130 lbs/60 kg of fries per hour. It incorporates real-time data analysis and Karakuri's patented /APC portion control technology to reduce food waste and improve operational efficiency. The system works with existing kitchen equipment and can be installed overnight to minimize disruption.

Karakuri's Semblr system, operational at Ocado's headquarters in Hatfield since September 2021, is an automated meal preparation unit that can create personalized dishes from various ingredients. The system uses a KUKA KR AGILUS robot arm to assemble meals based on customer preferences input through a mobile app.

In April 2022, Karakuri introduced its "Robot Ready" certification program, aimed at ensuring seamless integration of its robotic systems with existing restaurant software and management tools. This initiative was designed to lower integration costs and timelines for restaurants adopting Karakuri's automation solutions.

Key customers and partnerships

Karakuri has established partnerships with several prominent players in the food service industry. In March 2023, the company completed a trial of its automated chip fryer with the restaurant chain Nando's at their Royal Park location in London. During the 30-day trial, Karakuri's /FRYR robot helped cook over four tonnes of chips.

Vita Mojo, a digital ordering and restaurant management system used by brands like Nando's, YO!, LEON, and Brewhouse & Kitchen, became the first company to receive Karakuri's Robot Ready certification. Their software was integrated with Karakuri's Semblr system at Ocado's headquarters.

Ocado, the online grocery retailer, has been a significant investor in Karakuri, owning a substantial stake in the company. Karakuri's Semblr system has been operational in Ocado's staff canteen, offering personalized meals to employees since September 2021.