Called Market Express, and using Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, which it developed for its High Street ‘Fresh’ stores, ExCeL and its long-standing catering partner, Levy UK + Ireland, aim to offer a queue-busting option at a site that hosts more than 4m visitors a year.
Rak Kalidas, managing director of BUILT by Levy, said: “We’re excited to be part of another industry first and bring checkout-free technology to visitors of ExCeL.
“This follows the successful launch of frictionless kiosks within the Levy UK + Ireland stadia portfolio, so we know we have a winning formula which will transform the customer journey.
“The introduction of the latest checkout-free technology will further enhance the visitor food and beverage experience. Designed to be an effortless experience, it will speed up the customer journey, allowing them to purchase items without queuing to pay.”
Visitors to ExCeL’s Market Express simply tap their payment card or mobile wallet upon entry and then the Amazon Just Walk Out technology detects what is picked up from or returned to its shelves, creating a virtual shopping session.
When guests have completed their shopping experience, they are able to leave the store and their payment method will be charged for their items. The technology uses artificial intelligence to determine who has taken what.
The ‘Market Express’ concept has been developed for ExCeL by Levy UK+I’s multi-disciplinary service – BUILT by Levy. The offer includes hot beverages, nutritious grab-and-go hot meals, sweet and savoury bakery items, salads, sandwiches, a wall of fridges stocked with soft drinks, fruit juices, and milk-based drinks.
Customers can also buy fruit, nuts, granola bars, cereal, biscuits, crisps, sweets, and chocolate; plus, essential convenience items from medical supplies and toiletries to reading glasses and umbrellas.
Simon Mills, Chief Commercial Officer at ExCeL, added: “With some 400 events and 4m visitors every year, we are constantly looking at ways to further enhance our customer journey.
“Through our partnership with Levy UK+I, we can now provide a better, faster experience using proven safe technology, allowing more time for visitors to network, learn and trade around their event.”