Convenience Store and Consumers on Automatic

By George Anderson

Automated retailing's time has come. At least that's what Mike Rivalto, owner of SmartMart, an automated convenience store in Memphis, Tenn., is counting on.

According to the Commercial Appeal, customers can drive in or walk up to a computer touch screen to select from up to 1,800 products available at SmartMart. The machine accepts payments by cash, credit or debit card and delivers purchased items through a drawer.

Development of the SmartMart including gas pumps costs approximately $100,000 more up front than a 3,000 square foot convenience store. Once built, however, the labor savings are substantial as a single control center worker can operate the entire business.

Moderator's Comment: Are "consumers ready to embrace" automated stores such as SmartMart?

The novelty will attract attention. Repeat purchase will follow trial if (Big If) the shopping experience (convenience, price, quality of product) meets the expectations of shoppers.

• Convenient - and Smart - Commercial Appeal/GoMemphis.com