CHICAGO -- B+ Equipment has introduced the 24RobotMart, the automated convenience store. Able to hold up to 800 items, the 24RoboMart functions as a large vending machine and can be installed indoors or outdoors.
It allows customers to select a large range of items for fast service, just like at a convenience store. This system makes it easier to vend several items at once, which is typically difficult with standard vending machines.
Gemenos, France-based B+ Equipment, which will demonstrate the unit at the National Automatic Merchandising Association NAMA OneShow [image-nocss] in Chicago in April, took its expertise in automated packaging and picking machines to develop the 24RoboMart. It is both a shop and an automated service that can operate in a wide range of different product sectors (snacks, fresh food, health and wellness, consumer electronics, office supplies, and many more).
The machine includes a display case for products and a touchscreen that processes item selection, payment and provides a receipt. Products are selected by browsing the images or typing a product on the touchscreen. The order can be changed at any time during the process, and once the selection is finalized, the customer is prompted to pay. Payments of cash (bills and coins) or credit are accepted, and the POS system can be integrated with a customer loyalty program card.
Once payment is provided, the products are collected in an automated basket system that moves through the product shelves behind the display case in less than 30 seconds. The order is then delivered, all articles upright, to the customer via the delivery station.
The payment is processed, and a receipt is provided. A paper bag for the items can be selected to be include with the order.
24RoboMart can operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is suited for locations open to the general public (gas stations, shopping malls, hospitals, train stations, airports) or outdoors in town or city squares, the company said. In this way, a variety of different products can be sold outside traditional store hours.
Features:
POS interface is vandal-proof. Secure SAS (Safety Analysis System) fitted with anti-theft and anti-intrusion devices. 150 sq. ft. minimum for 200 item references and 200 sq. ft. minimum for 800 item references. Modular configuration that can be adapted to suit the premises. 800 individual slots for products allowing up to 20,000 items stocked in the case. Stocked items and prices can be modified easily. Products approaching expiration date are automatically removed by the system. Rapid restock can be carried out while selling is going on. Sales reports and stock position can be remotely transmitted. Cash can be easily managed. Information and fault alarms are transmitted by phone, SMS or email.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.