The Rise of Unmanned Stores: A New Trend in Shopping

In recent years, the concept of unmanned stores has gained significant traction in Germany, sparking interest among consumers. According to a study conducted by KPMG in collaboration with the EHI Retail Institute, approximately two-thirds of Germans are intrigued by the idea of shopping in supermarkets without staff. The findings reveal that around 70% of regular shoppers are open to utilizing such stores.

The study, which surveyed 1,000 individuals aged 18 and older, highlights a notable generational divide regarding the acceptance of unmanned retail. Younger demographics exhibit a greater willingness to embrace this innovative shopping format, particularly in urban areas where interest is markedly higher compared to rural settings. This trend is especially relevant as the number of grocery stores continues to decline, particularly in countryside regions where residents often face long distances for shopping.

Experts suggest that autonomous stores could play a crucial role in ensuring local supply chains in rural areas, countering the negative effects of diminishing brick-and-mortar establishments. Tobias Röding, a researcher at EHI, emphasizes that these unmanned retail formats could emerge as a viable solution for addressing the needs of communities where traditional grocery shopping options are limited.

Unmanned stores typically operate with minimal human intervention. Employees are usually present only for maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and restocking. Access is generally restricted to registered customers, while payments are handled through self-service kiosks. Some retailers have adopted a "grab-and-go" model, where items are automatically tracked via cameras, allowing customers to exit the store without manually checking out. Payments are seamlessly processed after leaving the premises.

Despite the appeal of these autonomous shopping experiences, skepticism remains among consumers. The study indicates that 45% of respondents express doubts about the feasibility of unmanned stores, and 38% report feeling uncertain about the concept. Concerns about the lack of social interaction and the impersonal nature of shopping in such environments resonate with many, with 68% indicating they feel monitored. Additionally, 54% are apprehensive about the security of their personal data in these settings.

Currently, unmanned stores are predominantly found in the grocery sector. Consumers demonstrate a more cautious attitude towards similar concepts in other industries, such as fashion and toys, where personalized service and expert advice are deemed essential. Röding suggests that the need for personal interaction in these sectors contributes to the hesitance surrounding unmanned shopping.

Recent data from the Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University indicates a significant increase in the number of unmanned stores across Germany, totaling several hundred, with the majority located in rural areas. Leading providers in this market include Tante Enso, Tante M, and the Tegut subsidiary Teo. Tante Enso operates 64 locations nationwide, offering a hybrid model where staff are present during certain hours. Tante M has established 63 stores in southern Germany, while Teo has 40 sites distributed across Hesse, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg.

This evolving landscape of shopping not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also poses new challenges and opportunities for the retail industry. As technology continues to advance, the future of shopping may very well be reshaped by these unmanned formats, inviting further exploration and adaptation in the marketplace.