UK National News - Robot Barman Doesn't Get 'Shaken Or Stirred'

03 July 2008

Robot Barman Doesn't Get 'Shaken Or Stirred'

Human bar staff could soon be made redundant as the world's first robotic barman has made his debut at London department store, Selfridges.

The barman, who is called Mr Asahi after the Japanese beer producer Asahi is capable of serving thirsty customers in under two minutes – saving the average person nearly 15 minutes at the bar.

It is reported that Mr Asahi is based on a PC which controls and regulates compressed air through "various valves and switching mechanisms" to provide the "animatronics required to pull a pint of beer".

The life size robot has been training for six months ahead of its debut at Selfridges.

Mr Asahi also has facial features in LED lights which move from green to red as he strains to open beer bottles.

He can also reply politely to questions from his customers and stay calm under pressure.

It is understood it took a 200 man team to develop the robot which costs £100 000.

A customer at Selfridges said "its quite unusual" and "you get served immediately, it doesn't talk back".

Another customer said she would prefer to have contact with a real person although it is "very creative".

Graham Sandry, Event Manager of Mr Asahi said the robot "ties in relevantly to the modern image of Japan and also a modern up-to-date lifestyle".

Asahi UK Brand Manger Christian Hamilton says "having Mr Asahi and seen him at work I'm sure he'll be a great asset to the Asahi team".

"We were looking for a unique way to sample our beer as we go on our first national tour and we think Mr Asahi will certainly attract a great deal of attention in bars, clubs and multiple grocers," he said.

Asahi beer was launched in May 1892 by the Osaka brewing company.

(DS)