7-Eleven embraces advanced AI technology for store operations

[Photo by Park Hong-ju]

South Korea’s major convenience store chain 7-Eleven is expected to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and big data technologies to enhance store operations.

According to sources on Monday, 7-Eleven plans to commercialize a digital shelf targeting alcoholic beverages by the end of this year.

The technology, showcased at a product exhibition in Seoul last week, garnered attention for its innovative approach.

The key to the digital liquor display is the installation of motion-sensing cameras on the shelves. The AI system reads the movements of customers’ arms and displays real-time information about the products that attract their interest.

This technology has been in trial operation since July 2023 at the 7-Eleven LDCC store in Gasan-dong, Seoul.

The use of such technology allows for comprehensive data analysis, showing insights into which locations on the shelves are catching the consumers’ attention and identifying popular items for cross-selling.

The system can encourage customers to buy products they are interested in but hesitate to buy because they don’t know enough about them, a company official said.

[Photo by Park Hong-ju]

Another highlight from the product exhibition was the AI FC feature.

Through a mobile app, store owners or part-time employees can inquire about various aspects of store management and receive instant responses.

The full implementation of this feature is scheduled for the second quarter of this year.

7-Eleven’s technological advancements align with its parent Lotte Group’s recent emphasis on comprehensive technological innovation, including AI.

Lotte Holdings is set to establish a new exhibition hall before its venue for a shareholder meeting on March 28 at Lotte World Tower in Seoul to show the group’s commitment to new businesses.

The exhibition will feature the group’s metaverse platform Caliverse.

This platform utilizes virtual reality (VR) video shooting and synthesis technology to create a virtual space where the appearance of real individuals can be replicated, offering potential applications in shopping and entertainment.

Caliverse is also the name of an XR solution developer acquired by Lotte Data Communication.