Store interior for the unmanned stores of the future

Imagine walking into a store in the middle of the night, picking the items you need, and then just walking out, without standing in line or talking to a single person. No staff, no tills - just you and your mobile. This is actually not as far off in the future as one might think, but is already a proven reality in today's fast-moving retail landscape. Unmanned stores powered by advanced technology such as AI, sensors and mobile payment systems have revolutionized the way we shop. For retailers, this development means a unique opportunity to offer customers a whole new level of convenience and efficiency, while keeping operating costs down. But then what are the advantages of the concept, and how should one think about store interior design in an unmanned store?

Unmanned stores, a new trend?

In Sweden, Pressbyrån was the first with the concept Pressbyrån Go, which was launched in 2020. Unmanned kiosks that attract a customer group that prioritizes speed and accessibility. Customers download a specific app and register to access the kiosks and through the app they scan a QR code to unlock the store. Once inside, the customer selects their goods in a store interior equipped with RFID tags that enable the system to automatically register what the customer takes. When the customer is done, they scan their items and pay through the app. Pressbyrån Go is an innovative investment in Swedish retail that meets today's demands for convenience and flexibility with the help of advanced technology. More players such as Coop and ICA are now following suit. Unmanned stores are being tested all over Sweden, are they here to stay?

5 advantages with unmanned stores:

1. Increased accessibility

The stores can be open 24/7, allowing shopping at any time, even outside of traditional opening hours. The stores can also be located, for example, in rural areas where the customer base is not large enough for a staffed store but perfect for an unmanned store.

2. Reduced personnel costs

Without the need for cashiers and other staff, stores can significantly reduce their operating costs.

3. Efficiency

An efficient and fast purchasing process appeals to a customer group that prioritizes efficiency. You avoid queues and can also shop at the time of day that suits you.

4. Data collection

Advanced systems collect data on customer behavior and preferences, enabling optimization of product offerings and marketing.

5. Minimization of wastage and theft

Technology enables real-time monitoring and can thus reduce the risk of theft and loss through better tracking of goods.

Technology in unmanned stores


But how does it actually work? Unmanned stores use advanced technology to make shopping smooth and safe. RFID (Radio-frequency Identification) and sensors track the products and ensure that the correct goods are charged to the customer. Cameras with AI-based image recognition monitor the store, and identify which products customers pick up. Customers use their own mobile phones to scan and pay for the goods directly via an app, no cash registers are needed. Shop fittings with smart shelves and built-in sensors detect when a product is removed and automatically update the stock balance. These technologies work together to offer an efficient and modern shopping experience, without staff.

Store interior for unmanned stores


Furnishing an unmanned store also places specific demands on both function and safety when it comes to meeting the needs of customers who shop without personal assistance. Here are some important points to consider:

Clear exposure

The store interior must be designed to present the goods in a clear and attractive way, making it easier for customers to find what they need without the help of staff.

Smart placement

The products should be placed in a way that encourages spontaneous purchases and easy navigation. Popular and quickly bought goods should be easily accessible, while less demanded goods can be placed in more distant places.

Optimized inventory management

Store shelves and pre-warning systems must be designed to be easily replenished and to automatically record inventory. This ensures that the store always has enough goods available for customers.

Security measures

The store interior must integrate security measures to prevent theft and reduce the risk of wastage. This may mean installing surveillance cameras, RFID technology and other security systems.

User-friendly payment stations

Scanning and payment stations must be easy for customers to use. They should be easily accessible and support different payment methods, such as mobile payments.

Easy-care materials

Material selection and design of the store interior should facilitate quick and efficient cleaning efforts, as there are no personnel on site to manage the maintenance continuously.

Energy and resource efficiency

The store interior should use sustainable materials and energy-efficient lighting and cooling to minimize environmental impact and operating costs.

By meeting these requirements, the store interior in unmanned stores can create an efficient and attractive shopping environment that meets customers' needs and expectations. At the same time, everything works without personnel being on site.

The Future of Unmanned Stores According to the Guide for the Modern Retailer published by Global Connect, unmanned stores are expected to generate more than $1.6 billion in sales globally by 2027 (up 52% ​​from 2019), according to research by The Insights. In Sweden, where large areas of the country are very sparsely populated, this type of solution can be the key to a vibrant countryside. In small towns with few inhabitants, it can be difficult to find economic support, which means that many small shops disappear. Then the unmanned store offers an alternative that in the long run can contribute to the local population being able to shop in their home town, even though it will be sparse between visits.

Unmanned stores are revolutionizing retail with technology that enables customers to shop quickly and easily, around the clock, without staff. These stores need special store interior solutions to function smoothly, such as smart product placement, security systems and user-friendly payment stations. By using sustainable materials and energy-efficient design, the stores can also reduce environmental impact and operating costs. Do you need help with the interior design for an unmanned store? We at Norco can help you, contact us here