Autonomous Trucks
The Giumarra Cos., an international network of fresh produce growers, distributors and marketers, and The Associated Wholesale Grocers Inc. (AWG), the nation’s largest cooperative food wholesaler, recently took part in a groundbreaking pilot with the goal of providing faster service, fresher food and less waste. While a human driver can complete the entire trip in 24 hours and six minutes, TuSimple’s autonomous system was able to do it in 14 hours and six minutes, which is 42% faster. Kansas City, Kan.-based AWG serves 1,100 independent grocer member companies and 3,000-plus locations from eight wholesale divisions. Walmart operates more than 11,300 stores under 58 banners in 27 countries, and e-commerce websites, employing 2.2 million-plus associates worldwide. 1 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2021 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America, while Walmart-owned Sam’s Club ranks No.