Fit for the future: Smart store equipped with electronic shelf labels

The smart store is now housed in a container. Covering a space measuring 9 by 3 metres, the shop offers sufficient sales space for about 300 items as well as a storage and technical room. Payment is made with the Q1 Shop & Go app, which is activated with a QR code scanner at the entrance. Alternatively, customers can use a debit or credit card that is read into a card reader. The site was developed directly in the heart of the Osnabrück Science Park with the support of the Economic Development Agency. The choice of site was deliberate. "The location is ideal for our test," underlines Bleydorn and continues: "The science park is dominated by many office buildings that do not have their own food outlets or canteens. The university has some buildings there and a small, young residential area has been created in the surrounding area." These are all factors that suggest you are dealing with tech-savvy people – who are open to a new shopping experience and also have a need that is otherwise difficult or impossible to meet. Among other things, this is due to the staffing levels that would have to be achieved for a small supermarket.

This also explains the wide assortment of about 300 products. It builds on the experience of petrol stations, including the need for food and hygiene. "But we also have coffee and superfresh food on offer, so freshly made sandwiches or salads," says Bleydorn. And he hints that the range will be expanded even further. Another point where the use of electronic shelf labels will be beneficial. 

An initial conclusion?

More sales, lower costs, higher margins? These are certainly exciting corporate goals, but these were not the focus of the pilot in Osnabrück. "We want to see whether we can master the processes outside of a petrol station shop, so product placement, daily service at the coffee machine or filling the shelf space," explains Bleydorn. The first results will be presented in mid-May. As Mr Bleydorn emphasises: "We have gained important experience, which we now going to evaluate, and will present the first results in a presentation at the Uniti Expo."