Norwegian retail market leader Norgesgruppen is enabling more of its Spar supermarket operators to run their stores 24/7 or extend opening hours beyond staff working times. Technologically, the stores are based on the RMA-Butikkstyring platform from Norwegian technology provider Liberty Now. The company specialises in solutions for the digitalisation, automation and remote control of food retail outlets.
Norgesgruppen has recently opened two further semi-autonomously operated Spar stores, thereby expanding its network of remotely operated outlets to a total of seven. The new additions are Spar Prestfoss and Spar Sæbøvik. Both stores combine traditional staffed hours with autonomous operation outside regular opening hours.
With a sales area of around 800 square metres, Spar Prestfoss is considered Norway’s largest semi-remotely operated Spar supermarket. During normal opening hours, the store remains staffed as usual – outside these hours, customers can shop around the clock. According to store manager Anita Steinseth, all employees are keeping their previous working hours. In addition, the store has recently invested in a new meat counter.
Longer opening hours for rural areas
The seventh semi-autonomous Spar Sæbøvik store is located on the island of Halsnøy in the Hardangerfjord, which has a population of around 2,000. Since the end of April, customers have been able to shop there from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm, Monday to Saturday. During the day, the store is staffed as usual. In the early morning and evening, operations are remotely monitored.
“Many of our customers work shifts, commute or arrive late. With opening hours until 11:00 pm and from 6:00 am, everyday life becomes easier, whilst the local shop remains a meeting place on the island,” explained Store Manager Bjarne Bjørnevik.
Liberty Now provides technology for autonomous operation
Norgesgruppen sees the concept based on Liberty Now’s technology as a key component in securing local supply in rural areas. “This type of solution makes it possible to combine a local presence with modern technology,” said Spar Norway Director Ole Christian Fjeldheim: “It is a good example of how we can further develop the convenience retail sector without compromising on safety or quality.”
Customers gain access by scanning their bank card at the entrance, pay at self-checkout tills and scan their receipt when leaving the store. Support is provided, if required, by a control centre staffed around the clock with video links.
More than 70 stores with Liberty Now remote control
Liberty Now states that over 70 grocery stores in Norway are already using their RMA technology. In addition to several Spar locations, Joker retailers are also using the platform, including the semi-autonomous Joker Dolmøy store. Other semi-remotely controlled Spar stores in Norway include Herøy, Solund, Svingen, Atrå and Eggedal.
