12 Jul - Exploring New Frontiers: AiFi’s Recent Autonomous Store Openings in Abu Dhabi & the Deutsche Bahn Railway
In June 2023, we launched two new stores: one in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and the other in Berlin, Germany. Continue reading to learn about the grand openings.
The world is currently in an era of rapid retail innovation and, thus, traditional shopping experiences are being redefined every day. AiFi is at the forefront of this retail revolution, bringing our autonomous store solutions around the globe. Needless to say, we’ve been making some big moves.
In June 2023 alone, we launched two new stores: one in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and the other in Berlin, Germany. In this article, we’re:
- Detailing the success of each autonomous store launch
- Showcasing images from both store launches
- Sharing personal insights from store stakeholders and customers
Let’s dive in!
AiFi & Astra Tech Launch Abu Dhabi's First Autonomous Store in the Iconic Sky Tower
On June 10th, the opening of B Store, Astra Tech’s first fully autonomous store in Abu Dhabi’s Sky Tower, powered by AiFi’s AI technology and Geek’s IT infrastructure and network, went off without a hitch! Or should we say ‘without a glitch’?
The store is located in the lobby between two buildings: one commercial and one residential, offering quick access to essential items for residents and workers alike. With AiFi’s AI technology at its core, B Store provides an unparalleled shopping experience, offering seamless, cashierless transactions.
Our state-of-the-art computer vision system enables real-time product recognition, inventory management, and optimized store operations, ensuring a hassle-free experience for customers. Here’s a quick overview of the shopper’s journey in Abu Dhabi’s B Store by Astra Tech.
1. Customers enter through the gates with an option to tap their credit card/mobile wallet or scan their face using PayBy’s FacePay feature to enter.
2. Customers are then welcomed into the store and are able to choose the items they want. AiFi’s computer vision tracks each customer and item to ensure the ultimate accuracy before charging the customer for their purchase.
3. Within a few minutes after leaving the store, customers receive their receipt via SMS.
During the launch, Astra Tech director, Valeriya Thores, said, “This innovative integration of facial recognition technology revolutionizes the way we shop and showcases our commitment to providing unparalleled convenience and security. Our vision has always been to simplify the every day for our customers, and this is another step in that direction.”
Check out Abu Dhabi’s autonomous store, B Store in the video below:
The Grand Opening of AiFi's Autonomous Store at Berlin's Ostbahnhof Deutsche Bahn Railway Station
On June 27, 2023, AiFi helped launch the 436-square-foot autonomous store, ServiceStore, in Berlin’s Ostbahnhof Deutsche Bahn railway station. The new store is the second AiFi-powered store to launch in Germany. However, it’s the first one available to the public. Run by DB Station&Service AG, operated by SSP Deutschland GmbH this ServiceStore caters to busy commuters on the go 24/7.
AiFi’s computer vision technology enables customers to enter the store, grab the items they need, and walk out without having to wait in line or stop to scan and pay. At this particular ServiceStore, customers can enter the store all 24 hours of the day with the ServiceStore Webapp app and complete their purchase via the app as well.
“AiFi’s technology has been helping consumers avoid long queues and reclaim that critical time amid their travels, so that they can move through their days more swiftly and focus their time and attention on things that matter most,” said Sander Garnier, New Business and Account Manager, Europe at AiFi. “We at AiFi are proud to partner with Deutsche Bahn to bring frictionless technology to shoppers and commuters in Berlin’s Ostbahnhof railway station.”
This store didn’t have to compromise or reduce their regular assortment of products when it transformed into an autonomous store. In addition to offering cold drinks, coffee, baked goods, and other convenient products, the store also sells alcoholic beverages and tobacco products via vending machines.
At the store’s launch, Martina Köppl, Head of Franchise Management at DB Station&Service AG, said, “The new 24/7 ServiceStore represents a milestone in the further development of ServiceStore DB and our customer service. From now on, AiFi’s technology will let passengers shop autonomously around the clock at Berlin’s Ostbahnhof.”
Final Thoughts
Both the AiFi store in Abu Dhabi’s Sky Tower and the one in Berlin’s Deutsche Bahn Railway represent the epitome of modern retail. The fusion of AI and retail is revolutionizing the industry, providing consumers with an unparalleled level of convenience and ease. These two latest autonomous store launches mark yet another milestone in AiFi’s relentless pursuit of reimagining the shopping experience.
Thinking about building or retrofitting an autonomous store? Request a demo to learn more about AiFi and discover how our autonomous solutions can increase store efficiency and maximize throughput.
