The PizzaForno automated pizza vending machine is currently operational and ready to take orders at the Arrive Silver Spring apartment building in downtown Silver Spring.
Toronto-based PizzaForno, which operates unmanned pizza vending machines, claims that the pizzas are stored fresh and refrigerated — not frozen — and are baked in under three minutes.
Customers can order and pay for pizzas through a digital screen on the machine or via mobile apps. A robotic arm then transfers the chosen uncooked pizza from a refrigerated section of the machine to a convection oven.
Each vending machine offers 70 12-inch pizzas with a menu featuring six varieties: four cheese, pepperoni, barbecue chicken, Hawaiian, meat lovers, and vegetarian, priced between $10 to $13. Notably, PizzaForno does not provide gluten-free or vegan options.
After baking in three minutes, the pizza is boxed and dispensed through a slot in the front of the machine, akin to an ATM.
(2/2): ultimately, the cold option might be the move here. You can save $1 for buying cold, and cook yourself in over in 4-6 mins. But this is a solid meal. Ultimate rating is 7/10. pic.twitter.com/DfuSC1zeae
— Ethan J. Alpern (he/him/his) (@ejalpern) February 1, 2024
According to PizzaForno’s website, the pizzas have a three-day sell-by-date, and the machines are routinely restocked with fresh pizzas. Any pizzas surpassing the shelf life are promptly removed.
Initially established in Toronto, PizzaForno expanded to various locations in the greater Toronto area by 2020, including hospitals, campuses, gas stations, and resort towns. The company further expanded into Texas, Georgia, and Michigan, with plans to partner with licensees across the United States and Mexico.