Tribune Nes Netork
DOHA
Al Meera Consumer Goods Company has successfully conducted the final test run of its first ‘Al Meera Smart’, a fully autonomous checkout-free store, at Aspire Park.
The pilot smart shop planned to open in due course is a reflection of Al Meera’s comprehensive expansion plan and continuous digital transformation strategy as it aims to ensure citizens and residents in Qatar enjoy easy access to hassle-free shopping thanks to modern technology and the latest cashless payment solutions.
The first Al Meera Smart store is powered by artificial intelligence (AI) technology which eventually be applied in other locations within Al Meera’s growing network in Qatar. It isready to offer services to customers based on a quick and self-service method, providing snacks, beverages, grab-and-go meals, and other basic goods supported by a cashier-less process.
The frictionless smart store operates through a collection of cameras and sensors that track customers from point of entry until they leave, speeding up the purchasing process to make shopping transactions faster, simpler, less stressful and more enjoyable for cunsumers by just tapping their card, shop and exit.
Saving customers the need to queue for payment after picking their items, shoppers can create a virtual shopping cart, put the items in their pocket, bag, purse or simply carry them, and the software will directly charge the cost of the purchased items from the customers’ credit card as soon as they leave the shop.
The smart store is another addition to the existing checkout-free lines in many Al Meera branches across the country. It also follos the opening and operation of a self-service branch - a mini-market - in the Qatar Energy tower in Al Dafna, West Bay.
Commenting on the new initiative, Al Meera said in a statement, "Al Meera is proud to be the first retailer in Qatar to offer a new smart checkout-free store solution through Al Meera Smart branches with the aim to make shopping more convenient for our customers and bring our services closer to them. Deploying this kind of modern technology promoting cashless payment solutions, supports the country’s digitalization and offers exceptional customer experience. We are confident that the successful technical testing of the Aspire Park Al Meera Smart store is only the beginning of this smart journey”.
Al Meera continues to offer creative approaches to make shopping more convenient for its customers by introducing innovative solutions such as online shopping, and temporary branches during the World Cup as well as whole sale branches and Maar metro outlets to provide essential needs with comfort.