Deepak Dwivedi from Singapore
SINGAPORE is at the forefront of a retail revolution, embracing unmanned stores that leverage advanced technology to create seamless, cashier-free shopping experiences. The surge in unmanned retail outlets is driven by brands such as Cheers, 7-Eleven, and Chateraise, which have collectively launched at least 18 new stores across the city-state. These stores, often found on university campuses and in high-tech retail spaces like Esplanade Xchange, aim to address labor shortages by utilising cutting-edge ‘Just Walk Out’ technology. Customers enter these stores using mobile apps, with cameras and sensors automatically tracking and billing their items.
Notable expansion
The expansion of unmanned stores in Singapore is notable. One significant player is the Pick&Go chain, which opened its first AI-powered convenience store at the Singapore University of Technology and Design in 2019. The chain has since expanded to include stores at locations like Lakepoint Condo and the National University of Singapore.
Another example is Cheers, which has embraced unmanned retail by opening a pilot shop within a vocational college. This store features a variety of vending machines offering hot meals, such as fried rice and pizza, along with a self-checkout system. The entire setup is designed to operate without any staff, showcasing the potential for fully automated retail experiences.
Challenges, limitations
Despite their growth, unmanned stores face several challenges. One of the primary issues is the limited variety of products available. These stores often focus on packaged foods with short shelf lives, which are easier to track using current technology.
Moreover, the global experiences of major players like Amazon and operators in China have highlighted other challenges. These include inadequate data analysis and the difficulty of managing fresh products, which require more complex tracking and maintenance systems. In Singapore, additional issues such as theft and limited payment options have also posed hurdles for the successful operation of unmanned stores.
The technology behind unmanned stores is continuously evolving. Singaporean retailers are investing in AI and robotics to enhance the shopping experience. For instance, the Pick&Go stores utilise AI to create a cashier-less, checkout-free environment, making shopping more convenient for customers. Moreover, the rise of unmanned stores in Singapore is part of a broader trend of automation in retail. Self-service checkout systems and automated vending machines are becoming more common, minimising waiting time and reducing the reliance on human staff.
The road ahead
Looking ahead, experts believe that unmanned stores will become increasingly prevalent in Singapore. The city-state’s tech-savvy and wellbehaved population is expected to adapt quickly to this new mode of shopping. As technology continues to improve, these stores will likely overcome current operational challenges and offer a wider variety of products.
In addition, the ongoing advancements in AI and robotics are expected to enhance the capabilities of unmanned stores. With better data analysis and more sophisticated tracking systems, these stores will be able to manage a broader range of products, including fresh items, more effectively.
As consumer familiarity with unmanned retail grows, these stores will become a staple in Singapore’s retail landscape.
