Regional convenience retailer Wesco expanding frictionless checkout
A family-owned and operated chain of convenience stores will deploy AI-based checkout technology in more than 20 stores.
Wesco, which operates 55 convenience stores throughout Michigan, is building upon a successful initial rollout of the Mashgin artificial intelligence-equipped self-checkout system.
Mashgin checkout kiosks use computer vision to instantly ring up items without the need to scan barcodes. Customers can place their items down and are then ready to pay. The kiosk can identify multiple items simultaneously in seconds with what Mashgin says is nearly 100% accuracy.
During the pilot program, Wesco reports that Mashgin kiosks accelerated nearly half a million transactions at more than 10 test locations with a median transaction time of 18.7 seconds.
"Our customers have quickly taken to love Mashgin's machines - and we've loved working with them," said Nancy Westgate-Sytsema, co-president of Wesco. "Both the technology and the team are extremely responsive, exactly what we look for in a technology partner."
Wesco will also leverage the Mashgin kiosks’ integration with the Verifone Commander system, which seamlessly connects the AI-based checkout kiosks to key store systems for workflows such as payment, loyalty, and fuel.
The retailer is also working to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience by utilizing Relex Solutions technology to shift from previous multiple disconnected ERP systems that managed supply chain and space planning with a tool that supports unified supply chain and space planning.
[READ MORE: Wesco unifies enterprise planning]
As a result, Wesco aims to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction by increasing product availability, optimizing inventory management, minimizing product spoilage. The platform also provides dynamic space and floor planning with store-specific planograms.
"Wesco is enhancing its already fantastic customer experience with this expanded adoption of Mashgin’s technology," said Jack Hogan, senior VP of partnerships at Mashgin. "Convenience store customers are looking for a quick and efficient buying experience, and by leveraging computer vision technology, a vast database of retail items, and a dedicated support team, Mashgin enables this experience for Wesco and its customers. We’re looking forward to serving and helping expand Wesco’s retail capabilities."
Wesco operates 55 convenience stores throughout Michigan, open 24/7/365. The company also owns and operates a private distribution center, a bulk fuel and propane business, a private label deli and bakery operation, and nine Subway locations.
