Part 3 focused on determining if unattended dispensing is suitable and introduced objective decision-making tools. Many retailers struggle to envision a concept which, at first glance, appears to advocate integrating “vending machines” into their stores, but there's a disconnect between the perception of such systems—from visuals to practicalities.
Consider the analogy: The Hyundai Getz and the Aston Martin DB12 are both cars; The Getz represents the old concepts of vending, whilst the DB12 represents the modernity and allure of unattended dispensing, a far more visually appealing and technologically advanced option with features designed specifically to serve retailers.
How can unattended dispensing restore profitability in your business?
1. Staff Shortages: The Australian retail sector is short of 32,000 staff. Unattended dispensing can alleviate this by
o Reducing selling costs for low-margin items and diminishing staffing needs.
o Eliminating queues for small purchases, saving time for both customers and staff and eliminating the need for cashiers.
o Ensuring sales continuity, crucial in consultant-based sectors like beauty and cosmetics.
o Protecting staff from the need to confront shoplifters - aiding staff retention.
2. Theft Prevention: Australian retail loses $9 billion annually to theft. Unattended dispensing offers solutions
o Payment is the only function that allows the machine to dispense the goods – simple as that!
o Prevents shoplifting by securing high-ticket items like liquor, electronics and perfume but they are immediately accessible on payment.
o Assigns inventory responsibility easily, with real-time monitoring reducing losses.
3. Security Costs: Unattended dispensing offers totally effective inventory security
o Unlike CCTV and RFID, it actively prevents theft.
o Deters repeat offenders, enhancing overall store security.
4. Analytics: Machine management systems provide comprehensive insights
o Enabling remote monitoring and detailed reporting.
o Future upgrades promise AI-driven personalization.
5. Scalability and Cost: Easily scalable with manageable costs
o Adaptable across a wide product range, from meats to electronics.
6. Consumer Convenience: Offers quick, convenient self-service
o Particularly attractive to time-sensitive consumers.
o Flexibility to dispense diverse product types.
7. Extended Trading: Leads in 24/7 trading capability
o Minimal operational costs for continuous service.
Unattended dispensing represents a paradigm shift, offering not just operational efficiency but also substantial improvements in security, customer experience, and profitability for modern retail environments and the most accurate “return / Sq ft” data possible !
In PART 5: Case studies and workable scenarios
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