Retail

Autonomous shopping rolls out in Bay Area marketplace stores

Photo by istock.com

July 26, 2021

Loop Neighborhood, a California grocery and retail marketplace, is deploying AiFi's computer vision-powered platform at two stores to provide autonomous shopping experiences for its Bay Area customers.

The technology deployment is an expansion of the retailer's initial partnership with AiFi on a full autonomous gas station in Campbell, California in 2019, according to a press release.

"We couldn't be more pleased to expand our partnership with Loop Neighborhood so their customers can start reaping the benefits of autonomous shopping through our computer vision-powered solution," Steve Gu, founder and CEO of AiFi, said in the release. "We are happy to provide Loop Neighborhood with this highly flexible, cost-effective solution that addresses their operational needs and adapts easily to their existing store configurations."

AiFi's technology can recognize tens of thousands of SKUs including shelved products of any size and weight. Retailers can integrate the technology without having to change their store layout, product assortment or shelf inventory, ensuring store operation continuity.

"AiFi's NanoStore has been welcomed with open arms by our customers and we think they're ready for the next generation of AI-powered shopping," Pervez Pir, COO at Loop Neighborhood, said in the release. "Our expanded partnership with AiFi will enable us to incorporate autonomous shopping technology into more stores, allowing our cashiers to focus on providing the best customer service — all while preserving the look and feel of a traditional shopping experience."

With AiFi's solution, Loop Neighborhood customers have the option to check out with a cashier or scan their LoopAutoCheckout QR code upon entering the store so they can purchase items without waiting in line.

Following the opening of the two stores this summer, Loop Neighborhood plans to open additional AiFi-powered stores later this year.