Compass Group's UK and Ireland branch unveils frictionless AiFi-powered micro market

Compass Group's UK and Ireland division is planning to launch its first fully frictionless store in a workplace in early 2022. Claimed to be the first for the foodservice sector, the first store will open in Ireland first and will be followed by additional sites in the UK over the next year. The locations will include corporate and defense sector clients, as well as sports and leisure venues.

The new stores will use AiFi's AI-powered computer vision technology which allows shoppers to purchase items without having stop to scan or pay. They will typically stock a selection of both hot and chilled "grab-n-go" dishes, drinks and confectionery.

Santa Clara, CA-based AiFi, says its autonomous shopping solution provides a "truly friction-free 24/7 experience in which customers 'check in' when entering and then freely wander through the store selecting from the wide assortment at their leisure; no scanning and no queuing to pay." Patrons leave with their purchases and a receipt is send to their phone.

To ensure customer privacy AiFi pointed out that facial recognition or other biometric features are not needed with its technology. Once inside, computer vision cameras anonymously track the shopper, adding the selected items to a virtual shopping cart.

The frictionless stores will reportedly be deployed where vending machine services exist, or where the new format can be included as a part of suite of options for the client, looking for a mix of self-service and serviced meal options.

A Compass Ireland client workplace in South Dublin has been selected as the first location. Timing of the opening will depend on the client's work-at-home policy. It will open as soon as working for home advice is lifted, hopefully early in 2022.  Trials have already been successfully carried out.

"We're incredibly excited to be launching our frictionless store technology through our partnership with AiFi," said Ian Cranna, Compass Group UK & Ireland's future of food director. "This cutting-edge technology will provide customers with additional convenience and the ability to quickly pop into our store and pick up what they need – it's a great solution for busy workers."

Compass Group UK & Ireland provides foodservice, vending, coffee and building maintenance solutions to more than 6,000 locations.