Automated retail has become more prevalent in the shopping community and successful companies are increasingly taking advantage of the unique opportunities it presents. Self service retail isn’t new; consumers have enjoyed the conveniences of making a quick transaction at the ATM or getting their movie tickets from a self-serve kiosk to avoid long lines or slow customer service.

Where and when did it begin?

Vending machines are a tried and true vehicle for shrinking an entire convenience store into a refrigerator size round-the-clock revenue generator. 

Towards the end of the 19^th century English publisher and entrepreneur, Richard Carlisle, expanded his reach through vending machines by selling books and the trend vending was rapidly adapted by other merchants. 

Creatures of Habit

According to research out of Harvard Business School, families on average buy the same 150 products over and over again. This makes up 85% of their household needs. Of those 150 products, whoever does the family's purchasing likely chooses the same brand time after time. Getting people to become loyal customers and take a chance on a new business  in today’s crowded

Are we at “the end of the retail world” as we know it? Have we reached the unavoidable black hole of retail that has been looming? Are brick and mortar retail locations going to morph into all encompassing e-commerce consumer transactions? Perhaps. Don’t be afraid though, e-commerce has its limitations that will limit its growth.

Today’s consumers have high expectations. They want more for less. This means delivering superb customer service, while providing a seamless, easy purchasing option and a great price.