Are you tired of waiting in long checkout lines at the grocery store? Imagine a world where you can grab your favorite snacks, toiletries, or even a hot cup of coffee without having to deal with cashiers or queues. Welcome to the era of unmanned convenience stores, where convenience meets cutting-edge technology.
Get ready to explore the future of retail, where stores represent a new era of convenience.
What is an Unmanned Convenience Store?
An unmanned convenience store is a retail concept that completely operates without service personnel or cashiers. Instead, transactions are handled through mobile applications and automated systems. These automated sensor-based systems are usually equipped with AI-integrated camera systems and machine algorithms. This enables self-service and self-checkout, hence it is also known as automated retail stores.
These automated retail stores have gained popularity in a short period. According to Extrapolate’s report, the global unmanned convenience store market is likely to be worth USD 1,640.32 million by 2028.
Significant Benefits of Unmanned Convenience Store
Here are some key benefits of unmanned convenience stores:
- Mobile Application: Customers may use a mobile application to access the unmanned store's services. The app will enable them to browse products, select items, and make purchases.
- Entry and Authentication: To enter the store, customers may need to authenticate themselves through the mobile app. This is done using various methods such as scanning a QR code, biometric authentication, or entering a unique code.
- Product Selection: Once inside, customers can freely browse the store and select the items they wish to purchase without the interference of the store personnel. The store layout is typically designed for easy navigation and accessibility.
- Automated Inventory Management: Unmanned convenience stores utilize technologies like artificial intelligence and sensors to track inventory levels. This enables the store to monitor stock and ensure that popular items are always available.
- Automated Checkout: Instead of traditional checkout counters, unmanned convenience shops employ automated systems for payment. Customers can complete their transactions through the mobile app, which may include options for various payment methods such as credit cards, mobile wallets, or digital payment platforms.
- Security Measures: These stores often incorporate security measures such as surveillance cameras, sensors, and anti-theft systems to deter shoplifting and ensure a safe shopping environment.
- 24/7 Accessibility: Many unmanned convenience shops operate 24/7, allowing customers to shop anytime that suits them, providing convenience and flexibility.
- Minimal Staffing: As the name suggests, unmanned stores require minimal or no on-site staff. This effectively reduces labor expenditure and allows streamlined operations.
5 Popular Examples of Unmanned Convenience Stores
Below are five examples of automated retail shops favored by people across the world.
1. Amazon Go
Amazon introduced Amazon Go, which is a great example of an automated retail store. It represents the idea of "Just Walk Out," which allows customers to check in with their smartphone, browse, and add items to their basket. The technology uses AI, computer vision, and sensors to track movements. When customers leave, Amazon automatically charges them for the items they purchase. Amazon Go is a benchmark for automated retail, with plans for more stores in Chicago and San Francisco. With a network of automated convenience stores, Amazon has an interesting foothold in the industry.
2. 7-Eleven X-STORE 7
7-Eleven has collaborated with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) to build Taiwan's first unmanned C-store. The X-STORE 7 concept, based at ITRI's headquarters, uses ITRI's Grab & Go System Service, which integrates smart shelves and AI sensors. The ledger system enables effective monitoring of inventory, tracking of sales, and identification of high-traffic areas for customers. Customers can enter, pick up, or return items using a QR code from the 7-Eleven app and finalize purchases at a dedicated checkout area. The technology is similar to Amazon's Just Walk Out technology, which has been introduced in some of its stores.
3. BingoBox
Bingobox is an unmanned convenience store initiative introduced by Auchan and Bingo Fresh in China. To access the store, customers simply have to scan a QR code, make payments through Alipay or WeChat, and exit by scanning another QR code. With more than 300 stores spread across 30 cities, BingoBox offers the flexibility of being easily relocated. Furthermore, the store is equipped with a dedicated customer support line to assist users.
4. Tao Café
Alibaba has recently introduced Tao Café in Hangzhou, providing a convenient shopping experience for customers who can use their Taobao app for purchasing and payment purposes. This establishment is equipped with advanced technology such as cameras and sensors to monitor products, exit scanners for seamless payments, and a facial recognition system to facilitate ordering and payment for beverages and snacks. By integrating its payment mechanism and smartphones, Alibaba has successfully created a seamless and automated retail experience, with the company striving to further revolutionize the retail industry in the coming years.
5. F5 Future Store
F5 Future Store is an automated convenience store where customers can conveniently place orders and make payments using their smartphones or in-store terminals. The products are then dispensed from machines located at the back of the store. Remarkably, the store offers a wide selection of freshly prepared food and beverages, all efficiently sold by machines operating behind the scenes.
Quick Wrap Up
Unmanned convenience stores represent a bold and innovative approach to the retail industry by reshaping the way we shop. With their seamless integration of mobile applications, artificial intelligence, and automation, these stores offer a convenient and efficient experience for customers. Customers can enjoy a frictionless shopping experience, grabbing the items they need and completing transactions with just a few taps on their smartphones. As we embrace this new era of convenience, it's exciting to envision the possibilities that lie ahead in the world of unmanned retail.
