Dunkin’, Circle K, White Castle pilot frictionless Mastercard tech

Two quick-service retailers and a c-store chain will test a frictionless, AI-based payment and drive-thru technology from Mastercard.

Dunkin’ is currently piloting the Mastercard Shop Anywhere checkout-free shopping platform, while Circle K will begin testing in October 2020. Supported by artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision technology partner Accel Robotics, the solution leverages inventory management capability and participating shopper analytics to offer checkout without wait or lines, and secure payments. 

Shop Anywhere can also give shoppers access to stores outside of normal opening hours if selected by the retailer, in addition to unique and exclusive merchandise. At a Dunkin’ store testing Shop Anywhere, customers can approach the store environment, pick up their food and beverage order, and walk away without any face-to-face interaction. In October, Circle K will launch at-the-pump and in-store “grab and go” frictionless shopping at select U.S. and Canadian locations.

In addition, White Castle is beginning on-location pilots of the AI-powered Mastercard Drive Through platform in October 2020. Provided in partnership with SoundHound Inc. and Rekor Systems, the solution will offer the quick-service chain’s customers personalized, dynamic menu offers which can be based on historical purchasing trends by store or individual participating consumer. The solution also removes the need for drive-thru customers to wait for an employee to take an order, enabling White Castle staff to focus on order throughput.

"At White Castle, as a nearly 100-year-old family business guided by having a heart for hospitality, bringing technological empowerment to the drive-thru is the next chapter in innovation for our industry,” said Susan Carroll-Boser, VP, technology at White Castle. “We're honored to partner with Mastercard on this important initiative, and eager for our customers to enjoy the benefits it will provide."

Mastercard will roll out the Drive Through platform with other quick-service restaurants later in the year.