I Tried VenHub, a 24/7 Robot-Run Convenience Store in LA – Here’s What It’s Like to Order from Robotic Arms

I visited a VenHub store in Glendale, a Los Angeles suburb, to experience firsthand what it’s like to shop at a fully automated convenience store run entirely by robots. The store, shaped like a large rectangular box about 22 feet wide, 10 feet deep, and 10 feet tall, sits right on the sidewalk—no door, no human staff, just glass walls and two robotic arms named Barb and Peter. At first glance, I didn’t know how to get in. There was no entrance, so I looked for a screen. Instead, I found a QR code on a sign. Scanning it led me to the VenHub app, where I had to create an account. While this initial step adds a small barrier, it’s quick and becomes seamless for repeat users. The app’s interface resembles food delivery apps—easy to navigate, with categories and search functions. I added a bottle of Fiji water and a can of Pringles to my cart, then paid with Apple Pay. Almost instantly, the store came to life. One of the fridge doors slid open, and Peter, the robotic arm, extended toward the shelf. With a precise two-finger grip, he picked up the water bottle, moved along a track, and placed it in a designated bin labeled “2.” Meanwhile, Barb retrieved the Pringles from another section and delivered them to the same bin. The app notified me that my order was ready at bin number two. When I confirmed I was there, the bin door opened automatically. I had 30 seconds to grab my items before it closed. The entire process took less than a minute. The experience was smooth, efficient, and surprisingly engaging. The robots worked with precision and grace, and I found myself smiling at the idea of being served by machines. The store offers a wide range of items—energy drinks, pet food, bandages, condiments, and even wireless earbuds—making it more than just a vending machine. VenHub’s model is designed to solve common retail problems: high labor costs, theft, staffing shortages, and limited hours. The company sells its “Smart Stores” to entrepreneurs and brands starting at $250,000. Owners can customize branding and inventory but pay a $2,500 monthly fee for software and support. The stores use AI to analyze local demand, weather, and seasonality to optimize stock and product placement. They’re placed in high-traffic areas, walkable neighborhoods, gated communities, and places like LAX, where 24/7 access is valuable. While not every shopper may prefer ordering through an app, the convenience of placing an order on your phone and picking up your items without entering a store is a strong draw—especially for late-night cravings or quick stops on the go. VenHub’s four Los Angeles locations are just the beginning. The company plans to expand across the U.S. and internationally, bringing robot-run convenience to more communities. And if you’re ever in Hollywood, North Hollywood, or near LAX, you might just find yourself ordering a snack from Barb and Peter.