Choice Market launches format for non-traditional spaces, including healthcare
Choice Market has partnered to open the first autonomous market in a healthcare setting.
The Denver-based retailer, which combines the selection of a natural grocer and the footprint of a c-store with the latest technology, and. St. Louis-based Health Hospitality Partners (HHP) have developed a new format, Choice Mini-Mart, to be launched on the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in the second quarter of 2022. The format will feature Choice Now, a technology that uses artificial intelligence and cameras to checkout customers without the need for a cashier.
Choice Mini-Mart was specifically designed for non-traditional retail spaces such as hospitals, airports and campuses HHP and Choice have plans to expand the concept nationwide. In keeping with Choice’s emphasis on healthy eating, the offerings will include high-quality prepared food and natural groceries along with everyday necessities. The inaugural location will also include Central, a Pan-American kitchen featuring customizable bowls, tacos, burritos, salads and sandwiches from sustainable, healthy ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.
“We couldn’t be more excited to announce this partnership with HHP and CU Anschutz,” said Choice founder and CEO Mike Fogarty. “At Choice, we firmly believe that food is medicine, and this innovative format will provide doctors, nurses, students, patients and families with 24/7 access to high-quality and nutritious options. This is truly a game-changer in the healthcare hospitality sector.”
The team at HHP has worked closely with leadership at both Choice and CU Anschutz to bridge the gap that exists between healthcare administrators and retail brands, ultimately providing the types of consumer experiences and offerings people have to come to expect in their normal daily lives.
“As we have forged ahead during the COVID-19 pandemic to fulfill our mission to bring hospitality to healthcare, Choice has separated itself from the pack of cutting-edge retailers who provide delicious, nutritious and affordable offerings for stakeholders throughout the healthcare ecosystem,” said HHP COO at Cory Sullivan. “We are looking forward to announcing additional locations around the country with this partnership in the year ahead.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Choice and HHP to provide the thousands of hard-working healthcare professionals on our campus with nutritious dining options they deserve, especially after giving their all throughout the pandemic,” added Jay Campbell, associate vice chancellor of facilities management and Planning at CU Anschutz. “We’re also excited to help establish a blueprint to be modeled on medical campuses nationwide.”