Barro Liverrpol, Uses AI to Upgrade Delivery Service

A grocery delivery service in Liverpool aims to utilize AI to revive the local high street.

18:15 15 January 2024

Steven Ingley, 40, serves as the Operations Director at Barro, a venture he co-founded with his business partner Darren Hudson, 33, both hailing from Wavertree. Barro stands out by eschewing large warehouses and refraining from delivering goods from major supermarket chains. Leveraging AI technology, Barro allows customers to order a variety of products, from fresh produce and meat to beverages, confectionery, fresh flowers, and homeware, from multiple local businesses in a single order, all delivered simultaneously.

 

The idea for Barro arose when Steven observed other delivery services from local businesses cease operations after the pandemic. Unlike its predecessors, Barro believes it has developed the technology to succeed in this space. By not relying on a large warehouse, Barro aims to save costs and offer greater convenience to customers. Using AI dynamically sorts items during the pickup process, eliminating the need for sorting in a warehouse. This approach enables customers to order from multiple businesses and receive everything in one delivery, a feat that would take hours through conventional means.

Established in 2022, Barro is set to launch a pilot program in south Liverpool later this year. Gemma Wakely from Booker Flowers & Gifts has already registered her business with Barro, praising initiatives like Barro for supporting local businesses and the community.

Barro has been testing its product using a mock refrigerated van and implementing AI for alternative product suggestions. To address customer frustrations with inappropriate substitute items, Barro developed an AI algorithm inspired by Netflix's recommendation system. Customers can select alternative items they'd be satisfied with before finalizing their order.

To fund its expansion, Barro, which was self-funded until last year, secured a grant from the High Growth Innovation Fund and launched a crowdfunding campaign. Steven emphasizes Barro's commitment to charge no commission for small independent businesses using its services. The business model aims to benefit both customers and local businesses, with low costs ensuring a positive impact on the Liverpool economy.

Barro pledges to donate one delivery to a food bank for every £10 raised in the crowdfunder, addressing ongoing cost-of-living concerns. Steven is optimistic that people will recognize the business's ethical stance and social value, viewing it as a convenient and socially responsible way to shop.