Retail outlets operated or contracted out by caterers in the public sector could soon be open without sales staff or the need for cash. The brand-new Foodies Shop & Go concept offers fresh food available for purchase in a hassle-free consumer experience with automated payment process.
After scanning a credit or debit card or the according app upon entering the Foodies Shop & Go store, consumers are free to pick their favourite food items and just walk out – no time-consuming check-out, no need to wait in line. The concept will be heading to the UK in due course.
Verena Eberle, global project leader at Selecta Foodies Shop & Go, said: “With it we now offer our consumers a completely new experience in addition to our seasonal and local, healthy and delicious products. Right from the start, our goal was to combine the simplest handling with the greatest possible enjoyment.”
The system is based on precise tracking sensors, recognising which products are taken, monitoring the consumer movements and using advanced tracing software while fully protecting privacy and data security at the same time.
Marco Retel, group director premium solutions for Foodies & Nestle Coffee at Selecta, added: “After the initial period of successful testing the Foodies Shop & Go solution will be launched across many markets in continental Europe, the United Kingdom and Ireland. We have already received a lot of interest from many potential clients primarily in public, semi-public segments but also in private such as workplaces.”
An additional step of human verification may take place in the background if needed, to complement the automatic transaction. This ensures that every consumer is only charged for what he or she takes and allows them to enjoy a fast and convenient shopping experience.