Hi-tech vending company provides contactless shopping at Chicago’s O’Hare

Vending robotics specialist Swyft Inc., parent company of Zoom Systems, said it is providing contactless shopping and robotic stores at O’Hare International Airport

Last year, Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot introduced an ordinance providing for new concession agreements at the airport. The agreements followed a competitive RFP issued in July 2020 looking for low-touch amenities.

Swyft’s concession award at O’Hare is in the name of TFG Swyft Ventures and is in partnership with The Forrest Group.

Swyft’s touchless technology, patented in 2014 and launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, allows travelers to purchase retail products quickly and safely from robotic stores without touching any products or interacting with any salespeople. Travelers simply scan a QR code with the camera on their phone and complete their purchase using contactless payment while a robotic arm fetches and delivers their product. 

“Through Swyft’s intelligent grab and-go and contactless robotic purchase technologies, food and retail brands are well poised to supply those travelers with essential products that facilitate their travel experience – from electronics to sundries, healthcare items, and food,” said Swyft chief executive Gower Smith.

Gower added that Swyft provides travelers with products and services from such brand partners CVS, Vera Bradley, Benefit cosmetics and Wellness 4 Humanity, along with a selection of well-known premium consumer electronics.