Subway Launches Vending Machines—Yes, This Is Real

Subway just unveiled its first-ever pre-made sandwich vending machine in San Diego, and the company revealed that it has plans to add more across North America. As reported by CNN, the chain debuted its new Grab and Go “smart fridge” filled with sandwiches, snacks and drinks back in September at University of California San Diego. They described the experience to be a “success” and one that they want to recreate across the continent. Here’s what we know:

How Will These Vending Machines Work?

Subway is aiming to bring more of these machines, the outlet writes, to “high-trafficked areas” like other college campuses, airports and hospitals. According to Subway’s press release, this is how it will work: local franchises will prepare and deliver sandwiches, insert them into the refrigerators (which are apparently equipped with artificial intelligence and ‘natural language processing’ so customers can choose to have a contactless experience and order verbally). Initial reaction from customers, Subway has said, has been “extremely positive.”

Subway Continues Pushing For ‘Grab And Go’ Opportunities

Subway has been pushing for more ‘Grab and Go’ style ventures for the past two years, as they memorably started selling pre-made sandwiches in regular fridges at airports, gas stations and casinos in 2020. The chain said last week that this program has rolled out to 400 locations with “plans for continued growth in the coming year.”

READ MORE: Customers Are Losing It After Subway Quietly Removed Chicken Breast From Menus: ‘Why Did Nobody Tell Me’

Taylor Bennett, vice president of non-traditional development at Subway, recently said in a press release, “As more of our guests search for dining experiences to meet their ‘in-the-moment’ needs, the brand’s non-traditional locations and platforms can serve them wherever and whenever they are craving Subway.” With that said, your new favorite (or classic) Subway sandwich just might one day come from a vending machine!