The first smart point of sale, Auchan GO, was handed over

By: Németh László Date: 2025. 04. 10. 15:10

Auchan Hungary has officially opened its new, innovative retail unit: the first Auchan GO. The smart sales point is available to customers 24/7, as it operates without staff. With the OkAuchan mobile app, shoppers can enter the store at any time, their purchases are automatically charged, and they can simply leave. This retail solution is gaining popularity in Western Europe and overseas, offering a fast and convenient shopping experience around the clock. The new Auchan GO is located in Bikás Park, in the Újbuda district of Budapest, and is supported by the Albertfalva Auchan hypermarket.

The new store format covers just 18 square meters, operates 24/7, and features a lightweight structure that can be installed virtually anywhere.

This staffless smart sales point complies with GDPR regulations and is equipped with an AI-based camera system and weight-sensing shelves. Entry is enabled through the OkAuchan app, and the entire shopping process is conducted via the app. Payments are processed through the application, eliminating the need for a bank card—though prior registration is required.

The automated store is located on the corner of Bártfai Street and Vahot Street in Budapest’s 11th district. As a novelty in Hungary, the model focuses on three main target groups tailored to the residential environment. Families using the park and playground are offered snacks, biscuits, and refreshments for children; athletes are provided isotonic drinks and energy bars; while nearby residents have access to basic groceries. Of course, those with food intolerances will also find suitable products at Auchan GO. However, alcohol and other age-restricted items are not sold. Popular private label products are included, offering added value and exclusivity in a store that features a total of 420 product types on its special weight-sensing shelves.

Auchan GO was designed with the surrounding green area in mind. The unit has a wood-effect exterior that will eventually be covered with greenery, while the surrounding environment has been enhanced with newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials, along with renewed sidewalk paving. Auchan also supports sustainability by avoiding paper receipts and incorporating energy-efficient solutions.

“This new format is an exciting experiment for Auchan Hungary to test a retail unit that enables quick and simple 24/7 small-scale shopping,” said Géza Vincze, Managing Director of Auchan Hungary. “Interestingly, Auchan will now be the only retail chain in Hungary to operate both the smallest (18 m²) and the largest (Dunakeszi Auchan, over 15,000 m²) sales points in the country. This clearly reflects our commitment to providing solutions for every shopping need and situation. Auchan GO was specifically created to meet the needs of the local community, park-goers, and families with children playing nearby, offering them a tailored product selection and constant availability. All they need is their smartphone—something everyone usually has on hand.”

Auchan’s technology partner is Kende Retail Operation Ltd., an innovative tech startup aiming to elevate