Food trucks in the U.S. have taken many forms, but have long been a popular option for dining. Now as the coronavirus pandemic alters the way we interact and engage with others, these kitchens on wheels may have a new function, especially on college campuses.
Rod Keller, CEO of the electric vehicle manufacturer AYRO is jumping at the opportunity to capitalize on the niche industry in a partnership with Gallery Carts. The new collaboration will combine AYRO's expertise in developing electric vehicles with Gallery's expertise in creating food delivery vehicles.
"Colleges are faced with, 'Well how do we provide food and beverage while at the same time, avoiding the mass crowds that you would typically see inside of a cafeteria?'" Keller told Cheddar.
So far, more than $500,000 has been poured into the collaboration as orders for the vehicles continue to amass. Keller said he's confident that as universities and other large campuses seek safer ways to feed their communities amid the pandemic, the need for their services will grow.
AYRO is also banking on buyers in higher education considering the long-term savings electric vehicles can provide. Keller said its electric vehicles save fleet operators at least 50 percent on fuel and energy costs.
"When people are moving cargo from one side of a university to another, or business campus, or hotel and resort, you don't need a full-sized truck with 400 miles of range running on gasoline to do that," Keller said.
Nike and Dick's Sporting Goods announced an integration of their loyalty programs that will allow customers to shop for exclusive Nike branded apparel on the Dick's Sporting Goods platform. Customers will also be able to make returns at its retail locations even if shoes were purchased directly from Nike.
John Freeman, VP of equity research at CFRA Research, joined Cheddar to break down factors weighing on video game publisher Activision Blizzard as it deals with the fallout from delayed releases and sexual harassment scandals. While not great for business, Freeman also questioned if the issues of the toxic corporate culture could have had an impact on title delays as well.
Steven Salz, Co-Founder & CEO of Rivalry, joins Cheddar News to break down how the metaverse plays into Internet culture, how augmenting human experiences impacts businesses, and how 5G technology plays into making it all possible.
Bed Bath & Beyond and Kroger have announced a new e-commerce partnership as the grocer looks to expand home goods and baby product offerings. Bed Bath & Beyond is also expected to expand its online product stock.
Orlan Boston, EY Americas ESG Markets Leader, joins Cheddar News to discuss the latest trends coming out of COP26 that companies should be paying close attention to, and what it really means to be a sustainable company.
