Virši introduces the first robot barista in the Baltics

Energy commodities trader and convenience store network AS VIRŠI-A (hereinafter – Virši) introduces the first robot barista in the Baltic states – a specialised robotic arm will from today delight the visitors of the Spice shopping centre in Riga with freshly roasted Virši coffee and more than 20 other drinks, quickly and accurately completing the order in front of the customer and bystanders. The total investment in the project amounts to EUR 150,000.

The new service combines the functions of a coffee machine and a robotic arm, offering the possibility to prepare more than 20 drinks for a wide range of tastes – lovers of classic and cold coffee, young people, vegans, etc. From 8th of August, everyone can try it out by going to the main entrance A of Spice shopping centre on the 2nd floor.

“This project is our first step beyond the usual service station environment to be closer to our customers and provide quality Virši coffee and other favourite, trendy and up-to-date drinks to everyone. Undoubtedly, with such projects we are also moving towards business sustainability. That is why we will continue to develop this approach and surprise Latvian inhabitants with new stores and solutions. Although robot baristas are already common around the world and many travellers can see them in airports and other public places, until now this technology has not been available in Latvia and other Baltic states. We are delighted to be the first to bring this solution here. Have fun and enjoy!” says Linda Prūse, Member of the Board of Virši, Head of Retail.

“The Spice shopping centre stands for innovation, so we are delighted to welcome tenants that offer our visitors the most advanced modern technologies to improve our visitors’ experience in the shopping centre. The Virši specialised robotic arm is a direct manifestation of this vision, fusing robotics and the best barista traditions into an exciting coffee experience. This coffee robot is not just a novelty – it represents the future of coffee brewing and provides a unique experience for our visitors,” says Iveta Priedīte, Manager of Spice and Spice Home.

The project was developed in collaboration with a long-standing partner, the full-service coffee company King Coffee Service. The technology is based on a highly advanced system that allows remote monitoring of all the robot’s operating parameters, ensuring consistently excellent beverage quality.

About Virši:

Virši is a rapidly growing energy commodities trader and convenience store network with 28 years of experience. Currently there are 72 fuel stations in the Virši network and these employ over 760 employees across all of Latvia. Since 11 November 2021, the shares of AS Virši-A have been admitted to trading on the Nasdaq Riga Alternative Market First North.