Introducing the Cloudpick AI unmanned retail solution to combat the aging crisis under the vision of a smart nation

Customer requirements

Singapore FairPrice, as a convenience store brand under the initiative of 'Smart Nation,' is addressing the dual challenges of the severe aging population and the difficulty of recruiting workers, especially for night shifts. As a steadfast supporter and practitioner of the Smart Nation plan since its early launch in 2006, Singapore aims to create a seamless integration of IT, networks, and data in the city-state, fundamentally transforming people's work and lifestyle. In 2014, they introduced an upgraded version, 'Smart Nation 2025,' focusing on deepening transformation in key industries such as education, healthcare, transportation, finance, and urban solutions.

Currently, Singapore has made significant progress in realizing this vision. According to the '2020 Smart City Index Report' by the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland, Singapore is ranked among the 'smartest' cities globally and has consistently held a prominent position in this list for several years.

However, as the 'Smart Nation' strategy advances, Singapore faces the challenge of how to integrate high-tech products implemented in the plan with the elderly population, who are considered 'falling behind.' This involves capturing the interest of this significant demographic to expand market coverage. Additionally, the aging workforce, a result of the aging population, poses operational pressures on managing such high-tech products.

In response, the Cheers convenience store brand under Singapore FairPrice hopes to introduce the Cloudpick AI system to provide a 'win-win' solution.

Cloudpick Solution

Utilizing Cloudpick's AI digitized solution based on advanced technologies such as AI computer vision, deep learning, and multi-sensor fusion:

• Cloudpick AI Smart Unmanned Store: Based on computer vision, machine learning, and multi-sensor fusion technology, it accurately recognizes customer actions and product information, enabling automatic settlement upon exit. This creates a new shopping experience distinct from RFID technology and self-checkout.

• Cloudpick Store Digitized Management System: Operators can monitor store operations in real-time, place online orders, adjust prices, set promotions, and receive alerts for out-of-stock items. This system enables remote store management, providing a comprehensive solution for store owners.

Result

On December 12, 2020, the Cheers unmanned convenience store located in Singapore's Tampines Hub grandly opened its doors.

With a brand-new high-tech core

The Cloudpick AI system tracks customers' actions and product information in real-time during their shopping journey. The selected items are automatically added or removed from the virtual shopping cart, providing an accurate record of purchases. Upon exiting, the corresponding amount is deducted from the Visa account, creating a novel consumer experience of "grab and go" with seamless payment.

Simultaneously, the smart barcode screens on the shelves enrich the offline sensory experience beyond speed. If a customer lingers in front of the shelves without making a purchase decision, the AI system, based on their actions, plays personalized recommendations and promotional discounts on the barcode screen to assist customers in their decision-making process.

Flexible Aging Solutions

On one hand, the Cheers SG APP has introduced the "One Account, Multiple Users" feature, bridging the technological gap for the elderly. By adding relevant facial data to registered family member accounts, seniors without smartphones can also shop in the store, and the bill will be deducted from the associated family member's account.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has mentioned the value of modern technology in benefiting the entire population, regardless of age, with a focus on improving the lives of the elderly. Cheers unmanned convenience store undoubtedly provides humane care with a smooth and user-friendly experience.

According to the latest Visa report, about 66% of consumers in Singapore currently prefer cashless payment methods such as card payments, mobile devices, and wearable devices. In the post-pandemic era, the concept of "contactless" further promotes the penetration of "cashless," with 78% of consumers expressing a long-term commitment to this habit. Therefore, Cheers unmanned convenience store, with its automatic settlement system, will leave a convenient, fast, and secure impression on Singaporean consumers, especially the elderly.

On the other hand, with a reduced number of staff and improved operational efficiency, the store is not hindered by labor constraints. As a "grab and go, seamless payment" smart store, Cheers unmanned convenience store, free from manned cashier and staff, effortlessly operates 24/7. The comprehensive digitization of "people, goods, and space" based on AI systems makes previously cumbersome operational management more manageable.

For instance, in the inventory check process, staff only need to occasionally compare data and confirm, avoiding the time-consuming task of manually counting each item. Additionally, in product selection, the accumulated vast consumer data enables operational personnel to accurately identify popular brands and categories, optimizing the product structure promptly, thereby increasing sales on the basis of enhancing customer satisfaction.

Customer Testimonial

Minister for Social and Family Development and Second Minister for Health, Mr. Masagos Zulkifli, stated that Cheers, as the unmanned retail brand under Singapore's largest supermarket chain FairPrice, will leverage its success in the unmanned retail sector to help FairPrice overcome labor constraints. This is especially significant in addressing challenges such as difficulty in recruiting night shift workers.

Mr. Seah Kian Peng, CEO of FairPrice Group, mentioned that if the AI system employed by Cheers unmanned convenience store proves effective as expected, there are plans to expand its implementation to more branches in the future.