In this new era, the primary goal for marketplaces is to provide a safe environment for all customers. The future of marketplaces is self-service, which will allow the business to remain profitable while abiding by social distancing protocols. Self-ordering kiosks reduce the risk of spreading illness through cashier proximity and cross-contamination. This is especially applicable in micro-markets.
What are micro-markets?
Micro-markets are unattended stores that offer customers 24/7 open shelving and self-service payment. They’re often found in large workplaces, hotels, employee breakrooms, campus dining halls, gift shops, and apartment buildings. Unlike vending machines, food and beverages are stored on shelves that are easy to access for employees or guests. Micro markets offer customers a wide variety of food and beverage options at any time of the day, keeping them satisfied and certain to return.
Why self-service micro-market kiosks are better than traditional vending machines
Self-ordering kiosks are the driver of micro-markets. The kiosks allow the customers to scan the food item of their choice, pay using a card, cash, or mobile payments, and bag the items all by themselves. Kiosks eliminate the need for cashiers to be present in the store at all times, cutting costs. The kiosks come equipped with anti-theft functions, such as built-in cameras that retrieve images of anyone who may be associated with a voided transaction. Micro markets are quick, accessible, and convenient for both the customer and the business.
Both self-service kiosks and vending machines are used to dispense food but are different in many ways. Vending machines offer limited food supply, enclosed inside a see-through case, and usually with no temperature control (except for refrigerated machines used for beverages only). Self-service kiosks offer a broader variety of food options including healthy snacks and ready-to-eat meals. Micro markets that uses self-service kiosks requires more space and use temperature controlled food storage.
Applications of micro markets
In the workplace, micro-markets provide workers with a convenience store that brings service and satisfaction. Imagine a market filled with food and beverages right near your breakroom. Many micro markets provide healthier food options to keep workers energized throughout the day.
Micro markets are also being introduced in apartment complexes. A company called Impulsify Inc. recently unveiled self-service stores in multiple apartment buildings on the East Coast. Through self-ordering kiosks in the common areas, the micro markets are currently providing residents with an option to purchase grocery items and snacks within their own building. Quick and convenient, micro-markets allow residents to avoid long, crowded supermarket lines.
You can find find micro-markets at airports, hospitals, sport-clubs, corporate buildings and other public spaces.
It’s clear: micro markets completely revolutionize the marketplace by increasing profitability with fewer workers and more customers. Micro markets have so many diverse applications and, coupled with self-ordering tech, and going to continue appearing everywhere.
How to stock a micro-market kiosk
Micro-markets are all about convenience and therefore should be stocked with grab-and-go food options. You can include a variety of beverages, healthy snacks and meals, fruit cups etc. Choose your food options depending on the location. Source food options from local businesses and build your connections. Wholesale suppliers offer food options in bulk for lower costs. If you are wondering how to start a restaurant business with no money, micro markets can serve as an easy alternative when you are just starting. By introducing food in micro markets, you can get an idea of what food items sell the most in an area. Getting a license for micro markets is much easier compared to restaurant licenses and permits.
Best micro market software for self service automation
Software companies work with hardware suppliers to provide businesses with kiosks best suited for their needs. GRUBBRR is known for automation solutions that help business of all types to improve their operations. The company has already proven the benefits of kiosks in restaurants.
GRUBBRR’s micro-market self-ordering kiosk solution has a cloud-based management system, offers multiple payment methods and has automatic inventory updates. Micro-markets attract customers who are looking for quick and convenient food options. Self-service kiosks ensure this customer experience and should therefore serve as ideal food micro-market retail options.
FAQs
What is micro market vending?
Micro market vending machines store food for sale. Food can be picked up directly from the temperature-controlled shelves.
What is a micro-market?
A micro-market is a self-service retail space that offers convenient to-go food options.