Imagine stepping into a store in the middle of the night, picking up the items you need, and simply walking out—without standing in line or speaking to a single person. No staff, no checkouts—just you and your mobile phone. This scenario is not as far into the future as one might think; it is already a proven reality in today’s fast-moving retail landscape. Unmanned stores powered by advanced technologies such as AI, sensors, and mobile payment systems have revolutionized the way we shop. For retailers, this development offers a unique opportunity to provide customers with a whole new level of convenience and efficiency, while keeping operating costs down. But what are the advantages of this concept, and how should you approach retail interior design in an unmanned store?

Unmanned stores – a new trend?

In Sweden, Pressbyrån was among the first to launch the concept Pressbyrån Go in 2020. These unmanned convenience stores attract a customer segment that prioritizes speed and accessibility. Customers download a dedicated app and register to gain access to the store. Through the app, they scan a QR code to unlock the entrance. Once inside, customers select their items in a retail interior equipped with RFID tags that automatically register what they pick up. When finished, they scan their products and pay via the app. Pressbyrån Go is an innovative initiative in Swedish retail, meeting today’s demands for convenience and flexibility through advanced technology. Now, other players such as Coop and ICA are following suit. Unmanned stores are being tested across Sweden—are they here to stay?

5 advantages of unmanned stores:

1. Increased accessibility Stores can remain open 24/7, enabling shopping at any time—even outside traditional opening hours. They can also be located in rural areas where customer demand may not support a staffed store but is perfect for an unmanned one.

2. Reduced staffing costs Without the need for cashiers and other staff, stores can significantly lower operating costs.

3. Efficiency A fast and seamless purchasing process appeals to customers who prioritize efficiency. No queues, and the ability to shop at any time of day.

4. Data collection Advanced systems gather data on customer behavior and preferences, enabling optimization of product assortments and marketing efforts.

5. Reduced waste and theft Technology enables real-time monitoring, reducing the risk of theft and shrinkage through better product tracking.

Technology in unmanned stores

But how does it actually work? Unmanned stores use advanced technology to make shopping smooth and secure. RFID (Radio-frequency Identification) and sensors track products and ensure the correct items are charged to the customer. AI-powered cameras monitor the store and identify which products customers pick up. Customers use their own mobile phones to scan and pay for items directly via an app—no checkout counters needed. Retail interiors with smart shelves and built-in sensors detect when a product is removed and automatically update inventory levels. Together, these technologies provide an efficient and modern shopping experience—without staff.

Retail interior design for unmanned stores

Designing an unmanned store places specific demands on both functionality and security to meet the needs of customers shopping without personal assistance. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Clear product display

The retail interior must be designed to present products clearly and attractively, making it easy for customers to find what they need without staff assistance.

Smart product placement

Products should be positioned to encourage impulse purchases and easy navigation. Popular and frequently purchased items should be easily accessible, while less in-demand products can be placed further away.

Optimized inventory management

Shelving and storage systems must be designed for easy restocking and automatic inventory registration, ensuring that the store always has sufficient stock available.

Security measures

The retail interior must integrate security features to prevent theft and minimize shrinkage. This may include surveillance cameras, RFID technology, and other security systems.

User-friendly payment stations

Scanning and payment stations must be easy to use. They should be accessible and support multiple payment methods, including mobile payments.

Low-maintenance materials

Material choices and design should facilitate quick and efficient cleaning, as there is no staff continuously present to manage maintenance.

Energy and resource efficiency

The retail interior should incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient lighting and cooling systems to minimize environmental impact and operating costs.

By meeting these requirements, retail interiors in unmanned stores can create an efficient and attractive shopping environment that meets customer needs and expectations—while functioning entirely without on-site staff.

The future of unmanned stores According to the guide for the modern retailer published by Global Connect, unmanned stores are expected to generate more than $1.6 billion globally by 2027 (a 52% increase from 2019), according to a study by The Insight Partners. In Sweden, where large areas are sparsely populated, this type of solution may be key to sustaining rural communities. In small towns with few residents, achieving profitability can be difficult, leading to store closures. Unmanned stores offer an alternative that may help local residents continue shopping in their hometowns, even if visits are less frequent.

Unmanned stores are revolutionizing retail with technology that enables customers to shop quickly and easily, around the clock, without staff. These stores require specialized retail interior solutions to function smoothly, such as smart product placement, security systems, and user-friendly payment stations. By using sustainable materials and energy-efficient design, stores can also reduce environmental impact and operating costs. Do you need help designing an unmanned store? At Norco, we can assist you—contact us here.