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The integration of AI has emerged as a game changer in many industries, and self-service equipment has not been an exception.

AI already offers improved user experience, enhanced efficiency, improved security, better business analysis and efficient risk management. Future benefits include improved automation, more personalized user experience, predictive maintenance and supply chain optimization.

A panel of self-service veterans expand on how progressive organizations can integrate AI into existing equipment.

The integration of voice interaction represents a pivotal advancement for self-service equipment, but embedding this technology into existing software has posed challenges. Challenges exist for integrating both automatic speech recognition and text-to-speech technologies, as well as challenges in managing audio signals.

A panel of brand decision-makers who have ventured into this sector to take the customer journey to new heights share their insights for success.

This session will explore how self-service technology can provide more than just an efficient customer experience; it can also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world. Going beyond convenience and efficiency, we'll delve into how retailers use the tech to implement sustainable practices, expand health care and empower customer well-being.

While traditional vending machines have been a staple in many public spaces for decades, specialty vending is emerging as a dynamic and profitable segment of the self-service industry. This session will explore the latest trends and innovations in specialty vending, focusing on the products that are driving growth and success.

The panel will cover:

• Product trends, including healthy snacks, fresh produce, gourmet coffee, hot food and more.
• Technology advancements: Exploring the role of technology such as touchscreens, cashless payment options and smart inventory management.
• Customer preferences to identify successful product offerings.
• Location strategies.

Discover how retailers are harnessing the power of self-service technology to revolutionize loss prevention strategies. Learn about the latest advancements in self-checkout and loss prevention solutions, including AI-driven computer vision, machine learning, and biometric verification. Explore how these innovations are streamlining operations, reducing shrinkage, and enhancing the overall shopping experience.

Micro markets represent a lucrative business opportunity for retailers and entrepreneurs, which is why this session explores the strategies and tactics needed to maximize profits and drive growth in the micro market industry.

Experts will discuss:

• Profitability analysis.
• Revenue generation strategies.
• Cost management.
• Data-driven decision making.
• Scaling micromarkets.
• Security issues.

As biometric identification verification has expanded to numerous use cases, consumer privacy laws make it critical for self-service equipment to comply with rules intended to protect consumer privacy. Such laws often require an organization to get a customer's consent to collect their biometric information. 

Whether it be fingerprint or facial image capture, companies that have adopted this technology have learned to comply with consumer protection laws. 

 A panel of experts will offer guidance on how to utilize this technology effectively.

Private-label products have become a cornerstone of the convenience store industry, offering retailers a unique opportunity to differentiate themselves, increase profitability and cater to a wide range of customer preferences. This session will provide an overview of the private label landscape, offering guidance on implementing and managing private-label programs in convenience services. 

Attendees will:

• Learn how to define private-label products and their benefits for convenience stores.
• Assess market trends to identify opportunities for private-label products.
• Review strategies for selecting the right products for your private label portfolio, considering factors such as demand, profitability, and competitive landscape.
• Discuss branding and packaging.
• Learn supply chain logistics.
• Explore pricing and promotion and customer loyalty programs.

Artificial intelligence offers convenience services operators new tools to improve operational efficiencies as well as the customer experience.

AI allows operators to utilize data such as demographic information to tailor the machine menus to the specific location. It also enables the operation to service the machines at the most opportune times, enhancing efficiency and improving customer experience.

While innovation brings new opportunities, identifying what technologies to add and when to introduce them has become more challenging than ever. Operators must be educated about technology and their staffs’ capabilities to choose the right technology.

A panel of operators who have traveled this journey will offer insights.