The trend of cashierless and cashier-free stores is rapidly gaining popularity in retail, offering convenience to customers and enhancing operational efficiency. This concept helps eliminate queues and promotes social distancing, which is crucial in today's retail environment.
These stores are already successfully operating in the USA and China, with Russia also adopting its own self-service initiatives. Examples of the first cashierless stores illustrate how technology is making the shopping process faster and more convenient.
In Russia, initiatives by Visa, "Azbuka Vkusa," and Sberbank are leading the way. Customers install an app, register, and link their payment methods. Upon receiving a QR code in the app, they simply scan it at the entrance. Inside, computer vision systems automatically detect chosen items and charge the customer's card, ensuring convenience and minimizing wait times.
Similarly, the "Pyaterochka" chain in Moscow launched the "Pyaterochka Naletu" store, operating without staff in a pilot mode. Here, customers scan items via a mobile app and can self-pay.
Internationally, in China, the startup BingoBox introduced fully automated stores using QR scanners and RFID technology for security. JD.com also implemented cashierless stores where payment is made through facial recognition.
In the USA, Amazon's Amazon Go stores, powered by computer vision, machine learning, and sensor fusion technologies, demonstrate a successful model of cashierless shopping.
Thus, the trend towards cashierless stores is evolving rapidly, offering businesses new opportunities to improve customer service and operational efficiency.