The future of automated stores: Unmanned stores may appear in Hungary too

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 12. 06. 10:58

Coop Szeged Zrt. will soon take its store network to a new level by introducing automated technologies. According to the company, the Coop unit on Szent István Square may be the first location in Hungary that may eventually become a completely unmanned store. The store has already lost traditional cash registers, replacing them with self-service checkouts, where traditional payment methods are still available for those who require them – writes the Szegeder journalist in a Telex article.

The first Hungarian Coop vending machine may arrive in 2025

According to János Kelemen, President and CEO of Coop Szeged Zrt., the automated store may open its doors in early 2025. During the transformation, technologies that enable shopping without human service will be used, including facial recognition cameras and a mobile application. Products such as alcoholic beverages will be available via bank identification, ensuring compliance with the law.

24/7 opening hours and modern technology

The concept of automated stores can be particularly attractive to residents of smaller towns, where 24/7 shopping has been limited. Smart stores provide customers with access via an app, allowing them to easily make purchases using facial recognition systems and digital payment solutions.

Another advantage of such stores is the full camera system monitoring, which immediately notifies the central security controller in the event of theft attempts or other problems. In the event of an emergency, customers can use an emergency call button, which provides an immediate connection to the remote security service.

Foreign examples: Experiences from the Czech Republic

Such stores are still a novelty in Hungary, but in the Czech Republic, unmanned Coop stores have been operating since 2022. The first such store opened in the city of Strakonice, where customers have access to products around the clock. According to Czech experience, such stores are particularly popular in smaller towns, where traditional stores often operate with limited opening hours.

According to Lukáš Němčík, Development and Marketing Director of Coop in the Czech Republic, automated stores are an ideal solution for customers looking for fast, flexible shopping options. In Czech stores, payment is made by card at self-service checkouts, and the security system guarantees that any complications are resolved quickly.

The future of retail in Hungary

The emergence of automated Coop stores could revolutionize the shopping experience in Hungary as well. 24-hour opening hours, innovative technology, and safe and flexible shopping options could make these stores particularly attractive. Although Coop Szeged Zrt. has not yet released full information on the exact details, it is certain that automated stores will bring the future to the domestic retail sector.