Selfridges hosts Makr Shakr robotic bartender

London department store Selfridges has installed robotic bartending system Makr Shakr, which will serve cocktails and mocktails over the festive period.

Debuting at the department store today (23 October), the Makr Shakr system will be showcased at the Smartech store on the lower ground floor. The installation hopes to show shoppers how technology can “empower people and create a new drinking experience”.

Using Makr Shakr’s mobile app, Selfridges customers will be able to either select pre-made recipes or create and name their own customised cocktails that will then be mixed up by the robotic bartender and served in reusable cups.

Emanuele Rossetti, CEO of Makr Shakr, said: “With Makr Shakr, consumers will actually have the opportunity to experience technology and be an active participant of the shopping experience, becoming – thanks to the Makr Shakr app – mixologist themselves. This way, people will leave the store with a drink and a lasting experience!”

On show to the public until February 2020, Makr Shakr has partnered with Bacardi for the activation and will serve spirits from the company’s portfolio, including Bacardi Carta Blanca rum, Bombay Sapphire gin, Patrón Silver Tequila and Grey Goose vodka.