No-more-cashier at new Suning store
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A Suning store in Shanghai introduces an intelligent self-service checkout using facial-recognition technology for payments.
Suning Biu is reportedly the retail giant’s second such store in China, reports China.org.
Covering about 100sqm, the new Suning store is larger with more varied product categories than the company’s first unmanned shop in Nanjing, where Suning has its headquarters.
Before shopping, customers need to download an app and upload their personal information including a photo of their face and a bank card. In the shop they scan their face to take advantage of the automatic payment process.
Without having to scan QR codes or barcodes to calculate prices, clients just need to step into a “payment area” at the exit and look at an overhead camera. Their purchases will be listed on a screen, and payment completed automatically using their registered bank card. The few staff members in the store are there to offer technical instructions if necessary.
Suning.com vice-CEO Fan Zhijun says self-service stores are expected to be introduced to other cities in China.
Questions & Answers
Q.What is the primary method customers use to pay for goods in the new Suning store?
What is the primary method customers use to pay for goods in the new Suning store?
Customers pay automatically by stepping into a payment area at the exit and looking at an overhead camera. Their registered bank card is then charged after their purchases are listed on a screen.
Q.How does this new Suning store in Shanghai compare in size and product range to the company's first unmanned shop?
How does this new Suning store in Shanghai compare in size and product range to the company's first unmanned shop?
The new Suning store in Shanghai covers about 100sqm, making it larger. It also offers more varied product categories than the company’s first unmanned shop, which is located in Nanjing.
Q.What steps must customers take before they can use the facial-recognition payment system in the store?
What steps must customers take before they can use the facial-recognition payment system in the store?
Before shopping, customers must download an app. They then need to upload their personal information to the app, including a photo of their face and details of a bank card.
Q.Are there any staff members present in the new Suning Biu store, despite its advanced self-service technology?
Are there any staff members present in the new Suning Biu store, despite its advanced self-service technology?
Yes, there are a few staff members present in the store. Their role is to offer technical instructions to customers if they are needed, supporting the self-service operation.
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