Żabka Group hits AiFi powered autonomous Nano stores milestone

Polish convenience giant Żabka Group has opened its 50th Żabka Nano checkout-free store.

These leverage AI powered computer vision technology created via cooperation with AiFi.

In a LinkedIn post, Patryk Powierża, Żabka Nano Growth, said: “BOOM! Store number 50 has been opened.”

“After about a year from opening the first autonomous outlet, we have reached the milestone of 50 stores.”

“That number strengthens our position as the biggest chain of autonomous stores in Europe. Easily you can estimate one week – now new store. It’s HUGE!”

Earlier this year, Tomasz Blicharski, Managing Director at Żabka Future, said: “We are constantly working to develop and improve the unique concept of Żabka Nano.”

“We focus on its flexibility – we are able to open more autonomous outlets both in highly trafficked locations, such as strict city centres or underground stations, as well as in large-format stores.”

“We are also one of the first in the world to develop a concept that allows you to enter the store using a payment card.”

AiFi

Earlier this year, US-based AiFi raised $65 million in a Series B funding round.

Qualcomm and Verizon Communications participated in this through their venture arms.

Discounter Aldi, German supermarket chain REWE and Żabka Group also took part.

The round brought AiFi’s total funding to $80 million, with the cash primarily being used to expand its technical team.

“As demand for autonomous retail grows and business intelligence continues to move from the cloud to the wireless edge, we are excited to support AiFi to help drive the connected intelligent edge,” said Carlos Kokron, Vice President, Qualcomm Technologies and Managing Director, Qualcomm Ventures Americas

“We value AiFi’s innovative approach to edge computing and look forward to accelerating the deployment of AI powered solutions that further improve operational efficiencies and elevate customer shopping experiences.”