In a surprising reversal of fortunes, rural shops that have long been on the decline are now leading the way in shopping trends, thanks to the integration of modern technology. Automated self-service stores are rapidly expanding not only in rural areas but also in urban centers, offering a convenient and cost-effective shopping experience.

One notable example is the village of Bítovany in the Chrudim district of the Czech Republic. With a population of just 430 residents, Bítovany has embraced the concept of a fully automated store called Fééér, which has revitalized the community. The store operates in a fully automated mode for most of the day, with a human attendant present only during the mornings. Customers in Bítovany can enter the store, weigh their produce, scan barcodes, and make payments using a digital identity provided by most Czech banks and a mobile app called DoKapsy.

The success of Bítovany’s automated store has inspired other communities to adopt a similar model. The Union of Czech and Moravian Consumer Cooperatives (COOP) has recently opened a partially automated store in Strakonice, which demonstrates that this concept is not limited to rural areas. The store is staffed during the day and switches to automated mode in the evening, allowing customers to shop at any time. The registration process for customers in these stores follows the same method used in Bítovany.

The introduction of automated stores has not only provided convenience for customers but has also played a pivotal role in sustaining small businesses in rural areas. Many villages have relied on subsidies and public support to keep their local shops open. The subsidies, which are often used to reduce labor costs, have significantly slowed the decline of rural shops. Furthermore, the success of these stores has shown that automated systems can effectively reduce operating costs while maintaining a high level of service.

The story of Bítovany’s automated store showcases the potential of combining traditional shopping with modern technology to create an efficient and self-sufficient store. However, one challenge for these rural stores has been finding suppliers willing to deliver to small villages.

While the convenience and cost-effectiveness of automated stores have been widely praised, some may question their vulnerability to theft. However, strict registration and surveillance measures, including digital identities and cameras, ensure the integrity of the shopping experience. Ultimately, the success of these self-service stores relies on the honesty of individual shoppers.

The success of automated stores in revitalizing rural communities underscores the crucial role that modern technology can play in sustaining local businesses. By combining convenience, cost-effectiveness, and community support, these stores have become an essential part of rural life. As more communities embrace this model, the future of rural shops looks brighter than ever, and they are poised to become trendsetters in the evolving retail landscape.

Article by Prague Forum