Dublin Airport is no stranger to innovation and convenience, and it’s once again breaking new ground with the opening of its first-ever AI-operated store, “Dublin Town To Go.” Located in Terminal 1 Arrivals, this groundbreaking concept promises passengers a frictionless, checkout-free shopping experience. Partnering with international food operator SSP, the airport is redefining the way travellers pick up their travel essentials and treats.
How Does It Work?
The shopping process is remarkably simple. firstly, passengers looking to make a purchase at “Dublin Town To Go” need to scan their payment card at the entrance. From there, a combination of advanced camera technology and weight-sensor-enabled shelving takes over, detecting the items they select. Customers are charged automatically to the card they used for entry when they exit the shop. No more queues, no more waiting – just swift, hassle-free shopping.
What’s on Offer?
The store’s product range is extensive, catering to the needs of departing and arriving passengers, as well as those waiting to welcome their loved ones. Whether you’re looking for a quick pre-flight coffee and sandwich or essentials like milk and cereal upon returning to Dublin Airport, “Dublin Town To Go” has you covered. From tea, coffee, pastries, sandwiches and salads to sweets, cereal, milk and toiletries, the store offers a variety of choices to suit every traveller’s needs.
A Game-Changer for Passengers
Dublin Airport’s Chief Commercial and Development Officer, Vincent Harrison is enthusiastic about the new store’s potential to enhance passengers’ experiences. He mentioned: “The opening of a checkout-free store in the airport is something completely new and different for passengers, and we think they are going to love it.” He goes on to emphasise the shop’s ability to provide quick, hassle-free shopping for passengers’ convenience, whether departing or arriving.
A Touch of Automation at the Airport
The AI-operated “Dublin Town To Go” is not the first instance of automation at Dublin Airport. Graeme McQueen, Media Relations Manager at the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA), points out that AI technology has already been integrated into various aspects of airport operations, from check-in desks to passport control. While automation is streamlining certain processes, he also highlighted that it is important to note that the human touch remains integral to delivering a warm welcome and an excellent overall experience for travellers.
International Inspiration
Although “Dublin Town To Go” marks a first in Ireland, it follows in the footsteps of similar AI-powered stores that have opened in the UK and the U.S. Amazon’s “Amazon Fresh” shop, for instance, offers a comparable checkout-free experience, allowing customers to scan a code for entry and charging their Amazon Prime account for the items purchased.
Dublin Airport’s “Dublin Town To Go” store is open 24 hours a day, making it perfect for passengers arriving late at night or those in a hurry. It’s already gaining popularity, particularly among travellers who don’t speak English, further enhancing the airport’s commitment to providing a seamless experience for all passengers.
In partnership with SSP, Dublin Airport is setting the bar high for convenience and innovation, ensuring that passengers enjoy a cutting-edge shopping experience that’s quick, efficient and hassle-free. As technology continues to advance, it’s exciting to see how airports like Dublin are leveraging these innovations to improve the travel experience for everyone.
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