AI, robots, ESLs boost shelf product availability as Dutch retailer Intergamma builds smart store experience
Intergamma, a Dutch owner of two hardware store chains, Gamma and Karwei, is testing out a robot that interacts with electronic shelf labels and taps AI to analyse shelf inventories.
In a LinkedIn post, Jurre Mulder, Executive Board, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Intergamma, said “What a joy - my weekly store visit - work becomes truly exiting when we collaborate with teams to experiment with innovations.”
“As part of our ongoing commitment to creating a “smart store” experience, we’re constantly exploring ways to apply technology that benefits both our customers and employees, making their experience each day a little better.”
He added: “One of our recent endeavours involves testing a robot. This intelligent bot interacts with the ESLs and leverages artificial intelligence to analyse shelf inventories.”
“Why is this important? By harnessing technology within our ecosystem, we can optimise shelf product availability and are also envisioning multiple use cases to build upon for the future.”
Simbe Robotics and SpartanNash
Simbe Robotics recently announced an expanded partnership with SpartanNash.
After an initial roll-out, its Store Intelligence solution, featuring an inventory robot called Tally, will be deployed to an additional 60 SpartanNash owned stores across the Midwest this year.
This informs product stocking, ordering, merchandising, and e-commerce fulfilment with real-time inventory insights across every store area.
It enables associates to ensure items are available for customers with accurate location and price, while freeing up their time for more engaging, guest facing work.
"We first piloted Tally in 15 stores and the success of that launch motivated us to expand Tally across more locations to help associates save time in inventory tracking and spend more time on the floor serving our store guests," said SpartanNash Executive Vice President, Corporate Retail Tom Swanson.
“The real-time data intelligence Tally provides helps ensure our store guests' favourite items always stay fresh, are adequately stocked and priced competitively, helping us deliver the ingredients for a better life."
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