SPAR Switzerland and AVIA open first unattended SPAR Express store in Zurich

SPAR Switzerland and AVIA have opened the first 24/7 SPAR Express forecourt store operating without onsite personnel at Zurich’s Sihlqui bus terminal.

In addition to refuelling, customers can now also stock up on groceries, fresh snacks, and coffee.

The 50m2 store offers around 1,000 products, including bread and bakery products, fruit and vegetables, dairy products, meat, drinks, basic food items, hygiene articles, and car accessories.

Access is made possible through FAST aXs technology which allows customers to enter the store by scanning a QR code at the entrance with their smartphone and accepting the terms and conditions.

People do not need to download an app or register. Items are also scanned with the smartphone and payment is made by Twint, credit or debit card, or with Apple Pay or Google Pay.

The store is equipped with cameras and sensors. If customers have questions or face any issues, information is provided online instantly and additional support is offered.

Sales are monitored via an app which ensures that the store is always replenished with fresh food. Customers purchasing fuel can pay at the AVIA petrol station with a fuel card, debit or credit card or cash.

For those unfamiliar with QR code scanning, students were present in-store to help in the first few days following the store opening.

SPAR Switzerland and AVIA intend to open additional unattended 24/7 SPAR Express forecourt stores.

Initially, units will be tested in the villages of Rueras and Surava in the Canton of Graubünden and at SPAR Switzerland’s central office in St. Gallen.

“These small retail units are primarily intended to complement the existing SPAR stores in order to offer customers 27/4 shopping. This means that those working early or late shifts can enjoy a fresh coffee with croissants or a light meal,” says André Scherrer, SPAR Switzerland’s Sales Director.

Tom Rose, Head of Operations at SPAR International, adds: “We are always on the lookout for opportunities to enhance our customers shopping experience in line with our goal of providing customers with fresh products, high quality, and convenience.”

“It is great to see the launch of this solution in Switzerland, using the latest state-of-the-art technology to bring a frictionless retail offering to shoppers 24/7.”