Kende Retail Operation connects with Coca-Cola HBC Group as it lays claim to autonomous stores first in Hungary

Kende Retail Operation reports the opening of the first autonomous store in Hungary, with a second one soon to follow.

This is the result of a partnership with Coca-Cola HBC Hungary which plans to open 15 unmanned stores over the next three years, investing a total of HUF 250 million, and aims to triple its revenues from the autonomous retail offering by the end of 2026.

"The launch of the first autonomous retail store represents a unique innovation not only in Hungary but also within the Coca-Cola HBC Group, spanning 29 countries. Over the years since the Covid-19 pandemic, the domestic retail sector has undergone significant transformation," says Ágnes Kovács, General Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Hungary.

"New technologies have taken root, new shopping habits have emerged, the sector faces a notable labour shortage, and digitisation is pervasive. As a leading food and beverage company, we strive to keep up with these changes by investing in technologies that provide long-term business advantages."

When a customer enters the sales area, the cameras associate their physical appearance with a virtual shopping cart. This system links the customer, the selected product, and their personal profile created in the “Take It Easy” application exclusively developed by Kende Retail Kft. for this technology.

As customers move through the store, cameras track their movements, and built-in sensors monitor the contents of their cart. Once the customer completes their shopping, they leave the store. The system then totals their cart and initiates the payment transaction. This technology does not collect facial recognition data, it exclusively monitors movements and activities necessary for seamless shopping, fully complying with GDPR regulatory frameworks.

The solution is located at Yettel Hungary's headquarters in Törökbálint, where it has become part of the daily lives of the 800-900 employees working there on primary office days. In the store, employees can purchase products distributed by Coca-Cola HBC Hungary (carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, natural mineral waters, energy drinks), as well as snacks, prepared meals, canned goods, dairy products, and hygiene items.

“Innovation and adapting to customer needs have always been a priority for Kende Retail. The appearance of so-called micro markets, such as the one in Yettel's headquarters, marks the beginning of a new era in retail,” says Gábor Kende, Founder and Owner of Kende Retail Operation Kft.

“These smart, automated stores not only transform the shopping experience but also expand opportunities for retailers. Our goal is to open a new chapter in retail with our partners, where shopping becomes more personalised, faster, and more convenient than ever. We are proud that Coca-Cola HBC Hungary was among the first to recognise the potential of automated retail, and we hope to introduce consumers to these pioneering shopping habits together.”

"According to Yettel's philosophy, customer centricity starts from within: satisfied, well-balanced employees create better customer experiences in telecommunications as well,” says Enikő Szalai, Yettel's Deputy CEO at HR.

“Opening the unmanned store at our company’s headquarters is part of a thoughtful employer strategy aimed at enhancing employee comfort, well-being, and meeting their daily needs. This development not only provides convenience but also sends a clear message: Yettel truly cares about its employees and actively works to make the workplace an inspiring, supportive environment.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Autonomous stores will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.