Unmanned Store Trends in California 2025: Robots, AI & Contactless Payment

Zixuan Lai

·September 25, 2025

·15 min read

Unmanned Store Trends in California 2025: Robots, AI & Contactless Payment — Image Source: pexels

You see unmanned store trends changing how you shop in California. Robots work in stores and deliver products. Artificial intelligence helps with restocking and customer service. You use ai for faster checkout and contactless payment. These trends grow quickly as more stores use new technology. You notice the impact on shopping and business every day.

Key Takeaways

Unmanned stores use robots and AI to improve shopping efficiency. This technology helps with tasks like restocking and customer service, making your shopping experience smoother.
Contactless payment options, such as mobile payments and biometric authentication, enhance security and speed at checkout. You can enjoy a faster, safer shopping experience without handling cash.
AI-driven inventory systems ensure popular products are always in stock. This means fewer empty shelves and a more reliable shopping experience for you.
Robots assist with various tasks in stores, from cleaning to delivering products. This automation allows staff to focus on helping customers, improving overall service.
The unmanned retail market is rapidly growing, driven by consumer demand for convenience and personalization. Expect more stores to adopt these technologies in the near future.

Unmanned Store Trends

Market Overview

You see unmanned store trends changing the way stores operate in California. Many retailers now use advanced technology to make shopping easier and faster. Stores use robots and ai to help with tasks like restocking shelves and helping customers. You notice more stores using digital tools to improve how they work and serve you.

Stores run more efficiently with new technology.
You get a better shopping experience because stores personalize your visits.
Retailers earn more money by using ai, big data, and IoT.
Many stores invest in digital systems to make their work smoother.

VenHub’s smart stores show how technology trends in retail shape the future. These stores use automation and smart systems to keep shelves stocked and help you check out quickly. You see similar changes in other cities, especially with autonomous delivery robots in Los Angeles. These robots bring products to your door without human help.

Retailers face workforce challenges. Many workers have jobs at risk of automation. Latino workers make up more than half of low-wage jobs and high automation risk positions in California. You see that current programs do not help all workers equally. This makes it urgent for stores to digitize and automate so they can keep up and support their teams.

Key Drivers

You find several key drivers behind the growth of unmanned store trends in California. These drivers help stores offer better service and keep up with changes in shopping habits.

Technological Driver	Description
Touch-free Shopping Experience	Unmanned stores provide secure, touchless payment options for consumers.
Sophisticated AI and Computer Vision	New technologies enhance product identification and improve security.
Integration with Mobile and Payment Tech	Streamlined payment methods facilitate quick and easy transactions.
24/7 Accessibility	Automated stores are available for shopping at any time.
Smart Inventory Management	Automated systems monitor inventory and assist in timely reordering.

You see ai pilots in Los Angeles making stores smarter. These pilots use heat maps and analytics to change store layouts and help you find products faster. Stores use ai to create video ads quickly, saving time and money. Chat and voice systems answer your questions and help you shop. Video analytics spot theft and keep stores safe. Dynamic pricing lets stores change prices based on live data, so you get fair deals.

Zebra’s analytics platform increased customer engagement by 20% and reduced losses.
HeyGen’s ai video ads cut production time in half.
RELEX’s automation helped stores run 56% more profitable promotions.

You notice these trends making shopping easier and safer. Stores use technology to solve problems and give you a better experience. Unmanned store trends will keep growing as more retailers adopt new tools and systems.

Robots in Stores

Robots now play a big role in California’s unmanned stores. You see them working behind the scenes and out on the streets. These machines help stores run smoothly and make your shopping experience better. They handle tasks that used to take a lot of time and effort from people. You notice robots in many parts of store operations, from stocking shelves to delivering groceries right to your door.

In-Store Automation

When you walk into an unmanned store, you might spot robots moving quietly through the aisles. These robots help with many jobs:

Inventory management robots scan shelves and check which products need restocking.
Cleaning robots keep the floors spotless, making the store safer and more pleasant.
Some robots even help with checkouts, making the process faster and easier for you.

In California, stores use different types of robots for automation. For example, Tally by Simbe Robotics scans shelves to track inventory. Cobi 18 by ICE Cobotics cleans floors without getting in your way. These robots work all day to keep stores organized and clean.

Note: In Oxnard, retailers use autonomous robots for inventory scanning and cleaning. This lets staff spend more time helping you and less time on routine chores.

You see that robots boost productivity and efficiency. Adrian from Schnuck Markets shared that store teams feel happier and stay longer because robots take over boring tasks. Jeremy, a former Target manager, said that Tally lets workers focus on helping customers, which improves your shopping trip. Jon from SpartanNash explained that Tally helps keep products in stock, so you find what you need every time.

Newegg Commerce Inc. uses Geek+ shelf-to-person robots in their Ontario warehouse. These robots pick items for orders quickly and accurately. Brain Corp’s robots scan shelves and clean at the same time, making sure stores look their best. When robots handle these jobs, you get better service and stores run more smoothly.

Delivery Robots

You might have seen small robots rolling down sidewalks in Los Angeles. These delivery robots bring groceries and meals straight to your home. Companies like Starship Technologies and Coco Robotics use hundreds of robots in cities across California.

Company	Number of Robots	Areas of Operation	Deliveries Completed	Target for Next Year
Coco Robotics	1,000	Santa Monica, Venice, West L.A., Westwood, Mid-City, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Echo Park, Silver Lake, downtown, Koreatown, USC area	500,000	10,000

You can order food from places like Shake Shack and track your robot delivery using the Uber Eats app. These robots make deliveries faster and reduce the need for cars on the road. They also help stores reach more customers without hiring extra drivers.

Tip: Delivery robots use sensors and cameras powered by ai to avoid obstacles and find the best route to your door.

Oxnard retailers and Newegg’s Ontario warehouse show how robots help with order fulfillment. Geek+ robots pick and move products, making sure your orders arrive on time. When stores use robots for delivery and order picking, you get your items quickly and reliably.

Robots now help with checkouts too. Some stores use machines that scan your items and process payments without a cashier. This makes checkouts faster and reduces waiting time. You spend less time in line and more time enjoying your day.

Robots have changed how stores work in California. You see them everywhere, from cleaning floors to delivering packages. They make shopping easier, safer, and more fun for you.

AI in Retail

Inventory Systems

You see artificial intelligence changing how stores manage inventory. AI-driven solutions help retailers predict what products you want and when you need them. Stores use shopping technology to track items and restock shelves before they run out. You notice fewer empty shelves and more choices every time you visit.

AI-driven systems improve demand forecasting, so stores stock the right amount of products.
These systems optimize delivery routes, making inventory arrive faster and lowering costs.
Automated inventory reduces manual labor, which helps stores run more efficiently.

You benefit from ai-driven technologies because stores keep popular items available and avoid overstocking. This makes your shopping trips smoother and more reliable.

Personalization

Artificial intelligence gives you a personalized shopping experience. Stores use shopping technology to learn your preferences and adjust product placement. You find your favorite items in easy-to-reach spots. Retailers use ai-driven technologies to replenish popular products and respond to your needs quickly.

Adaptive product placement matches your shopping habits.
Smart replenishment keeps shelves filled with items you love.
Responsive staffing means you get help when you need it.
Mood-aware environments adjust lighting and music based on who is shopping.

Voice AI boosts customer engagement and helps stores grow revenue. You feel more connected to the store and enjoy your visits. Retailers see higher conversion rates and fewer returns when they use fit and personalization widgets.

Use case	Typical time-to-value	Expected impact
AI scheduling	5–8 months	Reduced labor costs; faster break-even
Fit & personalization widgets	Weeks	Conversion lifts ≥200%; returns down 20–30%
Pilot governance / ROI measurement	3–12 months	Metrics translate to profit and loss

You save time at checkout and feel satisfied with your shopping experience. AI-powered shopping makes every trip easier and more enjoyable.

Customer Service

Artificial intelligence improves customer service in unmanned stores. You get help from robots that guide you to products and answer your questions. At BevMo!, a robot shows you where to find items and gives you detailed information. The ai system responds to your queries in real time, just like Alexa or Siri.

Robots help you find products and provide useful details.
AI systems answer questions quickly and accurately.
Robots manage inventory, making sure products are always available.

Bob Graham from BevMo! says the ai platform creates engaging interactions and encourages you to buy more. You feel supported and informed during your shopping trip. AI-driven technologies make customer service faster and more personal.

Contactless Payment Trends

You see contactless payment changing how you shop in California. Stores now offer smart payment systems that make your experience faster and safer. You use your phone or even your face to pay for groceries and snacks. These new contactless payment solutions help you avoid touching cash or cards, giving you a touchless experience every time you visit cashierless stores.

Mobile Payments

You notice more stores using mobile payments. You can pay with your phone using NFC technology, which lets you tap and go. QR codes make it easy for you to scan and pay, even in small shops. Biometric payments, like fingerprint or facial recognition, add extra security. You feel safe knowing only you can use your account.

NFC technology gives you quick and easy contactless payment.
QR codes offer a simple way for stores to accept mobile payments.
Biometric authentication protects your money and privacy.

Contactless shopping grows every year. The projected annual growth rate for contactless payment options in California retail is 8.2% from 2025 to 2032. You see more stores switching to cashless payment systems and automated checkout processes. Digital payments help you save time and reduce the need for paper or plastic.

Tip: Digital receipts and paperless loyalty programs help stores protect the environment. Eco-friendly packaging for curbside orders also supports sustainable practices.

Cashierless Checkout

You experience frictionless checkout in cashierless stores. You scan your items and pay without waiting in line. Self-checkout machines let you finish your shopping quickly. Automated checkouts use smart payment systems to process your payments in seconds.

58% of grocery workers say their stores have self-checkout.
Many stores face staff shortages, so cashier-less experiences help you shop even when there are fewer workers.
Cashierless stores use automated checkout processes to keep lines short and service fast.

Daniel Conway from the California Grocers Association says more rules for self-checkout could raise grocery prices. You see that stores want to balance cost and convenience for you. Digital payments also minimize resource use, making shopping more sustainable.

You enjoy contactless payment every time you shop. Cashless payment systems and contactless payment solutions make your trips easier and safer. You get fast, secure, and eco-friendly service with every checkout.

Unmanned Retail Store Market

Growth Projections

You see the unmanned retail store market growing fast in California. Many experts predict that the unmanned retail store market will reach new heights by 2025. You notice more stores using robots, AI, and contactless payment. The unmanned retail store market attracts both big companies and small startups. You find that the unmanned retail store market offers 24/7 shopping, which makes it popular with busy people. More shoppers want quick service, so the unmanned retail store market keeps expanding. You see that the unmanned retail store market helps stores save money on labor. Retailers use the unmanned retail store market to solve staffing problems. You also see that the unmanned retail store market gives you safer shopping with less contact. The unmanned retail store market uses smart systems to track inventory and keep shelves full. You get more choices because the unmanned retail store market can stock many products. The unmanned retail store market uses data to learn what you like. You find that the unmanned retail store market can change prices quickly to match demand. The unmanned retail store market helps stores lower waste and run more efficiently. You see the unmanned retail store market in cities and suburbs. The unmanned retail store market also reaches rural areas where regular stores may close. You notice that the unmanned retail store market brings new jobs in tech and support. The unmanned retail store market also helps the environment by using less energy. You see the unmanned retail store market working with delivery robots to bring products to your door. The unmanned retail store market uses AI to make shopping faster and easier. You find that the unmanned retail store market will keep growing as technology improves. The unmanned retail store market changes how you shop every day. You see the unmanned retail store market making life more convenient for everyone. The unmanned retail store market shapes the future of retail in California. You can expect the unmanned retail store market to keep growing for years to come.

Leading Startups

You find many startups leading the unmanned retail store market in California. These companies use new ideas to make shopping better for you.

Amazon uses advanced AI and sensors in its Amazon Go stores.
EATBOX creates automated food vending solutions.
XIAOMAI focuses on AI-driven retail experiences.
Bingobox offers unmanned convenience stores with smart checkout.
Xedaojia uses IoT for better inventory management.
F5 Future Store pioneers contactless shopping technologies.
Lingwa develops AI-powered customer interaction systems.
Seven Koalas integrates mobile payment systems for seamless transactions.

You see these startups changing the unmanned retail store market with their innovations. Each company brings something new to the unmanned retail store market. You benefit from faster service, smarter stores, and safer shopping. The unmanned retail store market grows stronger as these startups compete and improve their technology. You can expect even more changes in the unmanned retail store market as these leaders push the industry forward.

Integration and Experience

Seamless Shopping

You notice that seamless shopping experiences have become the new standard in California’s unmanned stores. When you enter these stores, AI and network camera systems work together to keep you safe and help manage inventory. These smart systems watch shelf levels and make sure products never run out. You always find what you need, and you rarely see empty shelves.

AI studies how you move through the store. It learns which aisles you visit most and which products catch your eye. Stores use this information to offer you personalized promotions and deals. You might get a special discount on your favorite snack right when you walk by. This makes your trip faster and more enjoyable.

AI and cameras improve security and keep shelves stocked.
Personalized offers appear based on your shopping habits.
Continuous monitoring prevents stockouts and saves you time.

Tip: Seamless shopping experiences mean you spend less time searching and more time enjoying your purchases.

Unified Systems

Unified systems bring together robots, AI, and payment technology to make your shopping smooth. You see robots restocking shelves while AI tracks inventory in real time. These systems work with mobile apps, self-checkout kiosks, and online stores. You can start shopping on your phone and finish in the store without any trouble.

Unified systems also connect with point-of-sale and customer management tools. This helps stores avoid mistakes and keeps your experience consistent. AI-powered insights help stores set prices, plan staffing, and create marketing strategies that match your needs. Self-checkout and mobile payment options let you pay quickly and safely.

Real-time tracking keeps products available.
Omnichannel integration lets you shop online, in-store, or on your phone.
Data-driven decisions improve pricing and service.

You enjoy seamless shopping experiences every time you visit, whether you shop in person or online. Unified systems make sure you get fast, reliable, and personal service.

Challenges

Security

You face new security risks when you shop at unmanned stores. These stores use AI, robots, and digital payments. Hackers target these systems to steal your personal data. You need to trust that stores protect your information. Stores use cameras and sensors to watch for theft. AI helps spot suspicious behavior. You see fewer staff in these stores, so technology must keep you safe. Stores use encryption to protect payment data. You benefit from biometric systems like fingerprint and face recognition. These tools help prevent fraud. You should check if stores update their security systems often. Strong security keeps your shopping experience safe.

Adoption Barriers

You notice that not every store uses unmanned technology. Some stores struggle to afford robots and AI. The cost of new machines is high. Many retailers work with small profit margins. They worry about spending too much on technology.

"One of the barriers is that the investment cost of these robotics is very high and these industries are very low margin," said Joe O’Donnell, the board chair of the California Restaurant Association.

You see that some stores only use technology for faster checkout. This limits the benefits. Some experts doubt that stores will adopt these systems quickly.

"If retailers only use it for checkout speed, I'm skeptical it will see much adoption in this industry over the next three to five years."

You also notice that older shoppers may prefer human help. Some people do not trust robots or AI. Training staff to use new systems takes time. Stores must balance cost, customer needs, and technology.

Regulations

You see that unmanned stores must follow strict rules. California sets laws to protect your privacy and safety. Stores must follow data protection laws. They need to tell you how they use your information. You see rules for payment systems and biometric data. Stores must keep your data safe from hackers. Some cities limit where delivery robots can travel. You notice that stores need permits for robots on sidewalks. New laws may change how stores use AI and robots. You should watch for updates to these rules. Regulations help keep your shopping safe and fair.

You see robots, AI, and contactless payment changing how you shop in California. Stores use automation to solve labor shortages and lower costs. You get faster service and more choices. Unmanned stores grow with new technology and self-service models.

Expect more cashier-less stores and inventory robots.
Self-driving delivery vehicles and drones will become common.
Consumer demand for convenience and personalization drives these changes.

Impact Area	Description
Regulatory Frameworks	You must follow new privacy laws and store policies.
Consumer Engagement Strategies	Stores create new ways to connect with you and improve your experience.
Technological Innovations	Retailers invest in advanced tools to meet your needs and follow rules.

You can plan your retail strategy or shopping habits to match these trends.

FAQ

What is an unmanned store?

You shop in an unmanned store without cashiers or staff. Robots, AI, and smart systems help you find products, pay, and get help. You enjoy fast service and easy checkout.

Are unmanned stores safe for my personal data?

You trust stores to protect your data. Stores use encryption and biometric systems to keep your information safe. You should check privacy policies before you shop.

How do robots help in unmanned stores?

Robots scan shelves, clean floors, and deliver products. You see robots restock items and help with checkout. These machines make your shopping faster and easier.

Can I use my phone to pay in unmanned stores?

You pay with your phone using NFC or QR codes. Many stores accept mobile payments. You enjoy quick, contactless checkout and digital receipts.

What if I need help in an unmanned store?

You get help from AI chatbots or robots. These systems answer your questions and guide you to products. You find support even when no staff are present.