31-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) 7-Eleven, the popular convenience store chain, has recently unveiled its first self-checkout outlet in Singapore. Located at Esplanade MRT station, the store, named “7-Eleven Shop & Go,” is set to revolutionize the shopping experience for customers. This innovative concept allows shoppers to take items without the need to scan them, marking a significant step forward in retail technology.
The Esplanade Xchange, a retail innovation hub, houses the new 7-Eleven Shop & Go outlet. According to public transport operator SMRT, the store offers a seamless shopping experience, eliminating the need for any additional mobile applications. To gain entry, customers simply need to tap their Visa or MasterCard credit or debit card at the gantry. A pre-authorization charge of S$1 is placed on the card, which will be used to offset any purchases made or refunded within one to 14 working days if no items are bought.
The store features a wide range of products, including snacks, beverages, and ice cream, similar to other 7-Eleven outlets. Once customers have chosen their desired items, they can simply exit the store without the requirement to scan the products. Carrier bags are not provided, so shoppers are encouraged to bring their own. The credit or debit card used to enter the store will be automatically charged for the purchases made. Additionally, customers who purchase a ready-to-eat meal can conveniently heat it up using the microwave oven located outside the store.
To incentivize customers to try the new self-checkout store, 7-Eleven is offering a 10% store-wide discount for patrons who visit the unmanned outlet between now and February 29, 2024. There is no minimum spending requirement, making this an attractive opportunity for shoppers to experience the future of retail firsthand. However, due to space limitations, the store only allows a maximum of five shoppers at a time, ensuring a comfortable shopping experience. 7-Eleven Singapore’s Managing Director, Serene Seow, stated that this limit may be adjusted in the future based on customer feedback and demand.
While the store operates without staff, customers need not worry about encountering problems during their shopping trip. Assistance is readily available at the manned 7-Eleven store located at Esplanade Xchange, just a short distance away from the Shop & Go outlet. Alternatively, customers can seek help by scanning the QR code located at the exit gantry of the store.
Excitingly, 7-Eleven Singapore has plans to open more self-checkout stores in the country. The first Shop & Go outlet serves as a platform for the company to better understand its customers and refine its future initiatives. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, 7-Eleven aims to introduce further innovations that cater to the changing needs of its customers while adapting to the transforming retail workforce.
