DoorDash buys startup behind salad-making robot

DoorDash buys startup Chowbotics, which makes robotic vending machines that can whip up dishes on demand. — AP

Restaurant meal delivery service DoorDash on Monday said it bought the startup behind a robotic vending machine capable of whipping up salads, parfaits, poke bowls and other dishes on demand.

DoorDash said it would use Chowbotics to help merchants expand their menu offerings as they get into new markets "without investing in an entirely new store."