Convenience-store retailer Choice Market debuts AI-powered store

Choice Market has unveiled a new format.

The Denver-based retailer has opened a location in its new, small-sized (less than 2,000 sq. ft.) “mini-mart” format at The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus in Denver. Open round the clock, 365 days per year, the new Choice leverages artificial intelligence and vision systems to checkout customers without a cashier.

Similar to Choice’s other three locations, the shopping experience at the new store is powered by “Choice Now,” a frictionless shopping technology that allows customers to enter their payment information on the Choice app, select their purchases and just walk out. As its first mini-mart, however, the Anschutz store is the first Choice to operate without a cashier be open 24 hours a day.

AI-powered ceiling cameras determine what customers have purchased and automatically send an e-receipt to their phone. The app also provides access to the Choice Rewards Program.

The company plans to include the technology in all future stores. Two more Denver locations are opening soon, with expansion beyond Denver planned for 2023.

The new location offers fresh meals, locally-sourced groceries and everyday necessities. It also features Choice’s Central, a Latin Fusion kitchen serving freshly-made tacos, burritos, salads made on-site and available Monday through Friday.

“Our decision to open at CU Anschutz highlights Choice’s commitment to provide fresh and healthy food to those that need it most,” said Mike Fogarty, founder and CEO, Choice Market, whose four locations are all in Denver. The medical community and CU students work tirelessly to serve the greater Denver community.”