In this episode, Otter Barista founders Eeyong and Jee An, along with Adrian and Kenneth from Zetpy Omni Solutions explain why they built a web app for their robotic coffee vending machines. With nearly 100 machines in hospitals, universities, and offices, they had sales data but lacked insight into their customers. The web app solves this by letting users pre-order drinks while walking to the machine. Customers scan a QR code on arrival and collect their coffee in under two minutes. Features like loyalty rewards, membership tiers, machine locator, and bulk purchase options make every purchase faster and more personal.
The founders also share the challenges of building the app. They tackled API integration with vending machines, worked around hardware limitations, and sought a long-term vendor partnership instead of a one-off project. Their approach turned a complex online-to-offline system into a smooth, reliable experience. The app also improves customer support, letting members report issues instantly and reducing refunds.
Looking ahead, the web app shapes Otter Barista’s growth strategy. It gives them first-party customer data for marketing and campaigns, improves hygiene through contactless ordering, and unlocks creative features like drink sharing and timed vouchers. The founders see the app as a key part of making their coffee vending startup more engaging, convenient, and future-ready.
Key takeways:
- Otter Barista now knows exactly who its customers are through the web app, solving the previous lack of customer insight.
- Pre-ordering and QR code redemption consistently reduce drink collection time to under two minutes.
- Loyalty rewards, member tiers, machine locator, and bulk purchase functions are fully integrated and actively used by customers.
- First-party customer data is captured and stored securely, enabling accurate tracking of purchase patterns and engagement.
- The web app ensures contactless, hygienic service and strengthens the overall efficiency and reliability of Otter Barista’s robotic coffee vending machines.
Ready to enjoy high-quality coffee anywhere, without the hassle? Explore our web app today.