Hospital retail specialist Lori's Gifts taps AiFi tech for launch of AI powered checkout-free gift shop

US retailer Lori's Gifts has introduced GO Market by Lori’s, its first ever AI powered hospital gift shop, created in partnership with AiFi.

These will open 24/7 in small hospitals where a staffed store is not financially feasible.

They range from 500 to about 700 square feet - about half the size of a staffed location - and stock everything from flowers and sundries to snacks and apparel. Half of the customers will be hospital staff, so a store open 24/7 can accommodate the night crew.

In a LinkedIn post, Lori's Gifts, which operates more than 250 stores in 34 states, said: "We are paving the way for the future of hospital retail - blending innovation and empathy to better support caregivers, patients, and guests across the country.”

“GO Market delivers a completely checkout-free shopping experience using computer vision. No lines, no registers - just grab what you need and go. With 24/7 access, the store is always open. Whether it’s a late night snack, a last minute gift, or a much needed moment of comfort, GO Market is there - on their time."

The first store is now open at Medical City Decatur in Texas, with a second coming soon to Mount Carmel Dublin in Ohio and more locations on the horizon.

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

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

The awards, which are now open for entries, 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.