Shoppers want in-store experiences that meet their needs. To meet those needs, C-store retailers are turning to self-service technology and modular design to offer their customers more flexibility. By embracing modularity, retailers can streamline operations with future-ready technology and enhance the overall customer experience with a more robust and personalized in-store environment.
In fact, most (92%) of convenience retail executives surveyed in Incisiv’s 2023 State of the Industry “Future of Convenience Stores” report said they see the value of a unified cross-channel experience. And, 52% emphasized the need for a transformed in-store look and feel that accommodates inventory, ensures rapid order processing and delivers satisfying shopping.
Self-service technology
C-stores are increasingly adopting self-service technology to enhance customer experiences. Among C-store retailers, 43% have embraced scan-and-go technology like ELERA® Self Service from Toshiba. This next-generation self-checkout solution is based on ELERA microservices architecture, which allows retailers to transform in-store shopping experiences, provide faster and frictionless checkout experiences for their customers and improve their retail operational efficiency. With a smaller footprint than cashier stations, the technology allows for enhanced service areas and new product displays.
“Modular technology like ELERA Self Service represents a pivotal step forward for the convenience segment. By leveraging a microservices architecture, it provides unparalleled adaptability, allowing retailers to evolve at their own pace. With this next-generation self-checkout solution, retailers can seamlessly integrate new features, optimize the checkout experience, and streamline operations — all with the flexibility and security needed to meet dynamic consumer demands,” said Naresh Keswani, VP of Product Portfolio at Toshiba.
As self-service technology is implemented, there is a growing need to address theft and shrink. To address this issue, roughly 71% of convenience store executives prioritize adopting innovative solutions that feature Computer Vision. Toshiba’s ELERA® Security Suite, which covers both self-checkout and front-end systems, leverages advanced Computer Vision cameras at self-checkout to detect instances of shrink by analyzing customer behavior and delivering risk mitigation insights. This enhances security while maintaining a seamless shopping experience, which empowers store associates to focus on more engaging initiatives like assisting customers.
Conclusion
The future of C-stores stores will rely heavily on modularity and self-service technology to stay competitive. Those who embrace these innovations will be best positioned to lead the industry in creating flexible, engaging and technology-driven shopping experiences.
“Convenience retailers are at a crossroads where adopting modular technology is no longer optional but essential. By implementing modular technology now, retailers gain the agility to stay competitive, scaling solutions to meet demand and integrating new functionalities as needed. This approach future-proofs store operations and ensures retailers can continuously evolve to meet customer needs and industry trends,” Keswani concluded.