Areas introduces pioneering AI-powered robotic restaurant SELF at Barcelona Airport

BARCELONA. Global travel restaurateur Areas has unveiled SELF; the first robotic restaurant powered by artificial intelligence (AI) at an airport. It is located in Barcelona Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport Terminal 1 and occupies 137sq m.

The project, made possible through the collaboration between Areas and Aena, marks a significant step forward in enhancing the passenger experience at the key Spanish hub.

SELF’s menu caters to the diverse needs of airport travellers. It offers a wide range of freshly prepared items such as premium sandwiches, coffees, salads, poke bowls, juices, pastries and desserts alongside soft drinks.

The result of years of research and market analysis by Areas, the concept was developed in partnership with IJRRobótica and AEV and represents a landmark in Spanish restaurant innovation and engineering.

The project also draws on the expertise of technology partners including Mastercard, Kuka and ICG, alongside contributions from major FMCG companies Mahou San Miguel, Coca-Cola, Frit Ravich, Lavazza, Montaraz, Gufresco, Danone, Evian and García de Pou. Aesthetic and architectural input were provided by Spanish design studios GAC 3000 and Espluga + Associates to create the restaurant’s relaxed yet modern appeal.

At the heart of SELF’s operations is a sophisticated robotic arm with a claw and tactile fingers that manages and delivers orders seamlessly. Customers can place their orders via an intuitive self-service kiosk and receive a ticket with a QR code.

SELF prepares and organises orders on trays for faster delivery, alerting customers when their food is ready for collection. The robotic system is capable of handling up to six orders simultaneously, ensuring swift service, while staff remain on hand to assist with additional requests.

The integration of advanced AI and machine vision enables SELF to adapt in real time, optimising inventory management and operational efficiency. Complementing human team members, the system ensures a more personalised and responsive service for guests, Areas said.

In line with the company’s ‘Areas for Change’ sustainability strategy, SELF was designed with a range of eco-friendly protocols. These include energy-efficient LED systems, packaging made from 100% recyclable FSC-certified paper and organic cotton uniforms designed in collaboration with Clothink.

Areas Ibera CEO Sergio Rodríguez commented: “This project marks a milestone in food & beverage and travel retail and reaffirms our entrepreneurial spirit, capacity for innovation, and transformational vocation to lead new trends in the industry.

“Areas is a leader in this industry and one of our main goals is to offer travellers the best possible experience through pioneering projects, new service models and advanced technological solutions that optimise operational processes and improve their customer experience.”