by Adrianna Dart and Rayna Lares
The Sea Store on the second floor of the Otter Student Union has received a major upgrade with the addition of the Botrista.
Botrista is an automated drink machine that offers over 20 drinks ranging from class milk teas and smoothies to Bobachillers and Studio Swirls with added protein options and the ability to adjust the sweetness level. All drinks are priced at $7.95. Students place an order with a Sea Store employee then pay for drinks at the regular register.
The addition of the Botrista has already made an impact on student’s daily lives.
“[It’s]more convenient than Starbucks because you don’t have to wait as long,” said Luka William, a Communication Designs sophomore. “And I can just swing in, pick what I want, shop around, and once I’m done shopping, I can get what I need and then go”
Freshman psychology student, Annalise Ramirez, also liked the convenience.
“It’s super easy, like I can just grab what I want and then pay,” Ramirez said.
All changes to Dine on Campus are aligned with the CSUMB Chartwell’s contract; they will continue to staff and operate all dining locations on campus. Like any products at the Sea Store, meal plan holders are able to use their dining dollars for their boba.
The Botrista company states on its website that it uses Beverage AI to track drink trends, location, and preferences in order to further tailor their drink menus. The company claims that this AI allows them to build menus around real time trends, better prepare staff in prep based on current demands and serve drinks consistently during peak hours
The company’s website did not mention anything regarding the environmental impact of AI in the Botrista machine.
