A new, concept 7-Eleven store is completely unmanned.
The cashier-less store is being operated by an AI-style “proprietary mixture of algorithms and predictive technology” that knows how to distinguish individual patrons and their purchases from others in the shop. For the time being, only select popular products will be sold onsite, including over-the-counter drugs, beverages and groceries.
“Retail technology is evolving at a rapid pace and customer expectations are driving the evolution,” said 7-Eleven President and CEO Joe DePinto. “Our team is dedicated to continuing 7-Eleven’s legacy of innovation with industry-leading digital solutions. Most recently that has included our award winning 7Rewards loyalty platform, 7NOW on-demand delivery, mobile checkout, and now our new cashierless store.”
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This 700-square-foot 7-Eleven location will only be shopped by store employees during the pilot program.
“Ultimately, our goal is to exceed consumers’ expectations for faster, easier transactions and a seamless shopping experience,” said Mani Suri, 7-Eleven senior vice president and chief information officer. “Introducing new store technology to 7-Eleven employees first has proven to be a very productive way to test and learn before launching to a wider audience.”
To make a purchase, the shopper downloads an app, signs up and then checks in at the store. Receipts will be loaded onto the app instead of printed.
This isn’t the first time the convenience store chain has forged ahead with tech-friendly innovations. It also recently offered a mobile checkout feature that allowed shoppers to pay via phone without standing in a line. Their 7NOW service delivered store products directly to customers’ homes.
The Japanese-American chain, which is headquartered in Dallas, announced its Houston return in 2018 after a 30-year absence, although the lone outpost at 18555 State Highway closed. There are more than 700 Texas locations, including the new