MOORESVILLE, N.C., April 3, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- Imagine
the home improvement professional who is mid-project and breaks a drill bit. Or the DIYer who finds herself short a gallon of
paint to complete a bedroom touchup. Instead of heading out the door to the neighborhood Lowe's, they grab a phone or laptop and
order online – then go right back to work until a robot rolls up to their location with that critical item, the very same
day.
Lowe's is helping FedEx understand Lowe's customers' needs in an effort to bring those visions to life with same-day delivery
via the FedEx SameDay Bot.
FedEx is developing this technology to provide safe, efficient and environmentally friendly delivery in localized areas. The
FedEx SameDay Bot will rely on pedestrian-safe technology to navigate the path to its destination.
"We're focused on serving our customers where, when and how they want to be served, and smooth, reliable, timely delivery is
critical," said Don Frieson, Lowe's executive vice president of supply chain. "The
convenience and capability the FedEx SameDay Bot is being designed to offer has the potential to simplify and speed distribution
through same-day delivery from your neighborhood Lowe's. We look forward to exploring possibilities to enhance the service we
provide our customers through this innovation – and what this kind of support can mean for our associates."
The Bot is being developed to operate on sidewalks and along roadsides, remain stable and avoid obstacles, while negotiating
curbs, unpaved surfaces and tight turns. Gyroscopic technology helps keep cargo level and still. And while that agility can
simplify access to a busy construction site, same-day, on-site delivery's greatest value might be allowing contractors to
continue working without costly interruptions and delays.
"Consider pros who could save time and money by never leaving the job site for the critical tools and supplies they need from
Lowe's," Frieson said. "Rising labor wages cost businesses every time a worker leaves to pick up supplies. Then consider the lost
productivity from work that remained untouched while they are gone, and we believe professionals will quickly realize the savings
of job site delivery."
FedEx aims to begin testing the robot in select markets this summer.
About Lowe's
Lowe's Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) is a FORTUNE® 50 home improvement company serving more than 18 million
customers a week in the United States, Canada and Mexico. With fiscal year 2018 sales of $71.3 billion, Lowe's and its related
businesses operate or service more than 2,200 home improvement and hardware stores and employ approximately 300,000 associates.
Founded in 1946 and based in Mooresville, N.C., Lowe's supports its hometown Charlotte region and all communities it serves through programs focused on safe, affordable housing and
careers in the skilled trades. For more information, visit Lowes.com.
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SOURCE Lowe's Companies, Inc.