Intel introduces Self-Service Kiosk For Grocery Stores
SANTA CLARA, CA — The trend toward consumer self-service continues to grow. Intel has expanded on their original retail concept first demonstrated at the National Retail Federation Convention (NRF) in New York last January 2009 with the introduction of a self-service grocery checkout terminal.
 Designed specifically for grocery store environments, the new kiosk design (Top image) integrates several advanced concepts that include mobile phone integration which enables shoppers to send grocery lists to their phones and retrieve and scan electronic coupons. A touchscreen user interface provides customers with useful information, like a recipe look-up option. The kiosk also provides effective cross-selling opportunities for the grocer and reduces transaction time by giving the consumer the choice of self-checkout.
The system features a Intel® vPro™ technology with Intel® Active Management Technology (AMT) that offers lower maintenance costs, remote-manageability and an average energy cost savings of 70% compared to legacy point-of-sale systems. The design is modular, so upgrading the CPU or other components can be easily interchanged or replaced to meet evolving business needs.
Technology within the grocery store environment has made significant advances in the last few years. Several companies have entered the market for self-service applications in the grocery store space aimed at enhancing the experience for shoppers and grow sales revenue.
Modiv Media, a Boston-based developer of in-store shopping technology has deployed their system with major retailers that include Stop & Shop and Giant Eagle. Their product, Modiv Shopper is a hand-held device that enables consumers to scan and bag groceries as they shop. The system provides consumers with a running total as they move through the store. Modiv's system provides a platform for advertisers and grocers to make special offers to consumers at the point-of-decision providing a direct opportunity to influence sales.
Springboard Retail Networks, a Toronto-based developer of real-time, interactive shopping tools offers an advanced shopping cart system called Concierge. The Concierge system uses an interactive touchscreen computer that is integrated into the center of a shopping cart handle. Connected to a wireless in-store network, the Concierge system provides consumers with an enhanced shopping experience. When the Concierge shopping cart is put into motion the system comes to life providing helpful information and features, including new product introductions, how-to tips, recipes, shopping lists, in-store specials, coupons, a product finder, and product scanning. The system knows where shoppers are within the store and delivers personalized information and relevant advertising while they shop.
Intel has been working with the retailers on developing next-generation "Embedded Internet" systems that bring the online and social networking experience into the retail environment. The systems are designed to enhance customer loyalty and motivate consumers, while reducing operating costs for retailers. With a clear trend toward consumer self-service, the Intel system should show up at a grocery store near you in the near future.
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