Automated Retail for your School?

            Automated retail is the use of machines to promote and distribute products without a brick and mortar store.  Corporations across the industry are using automated retail kiosks to engage customers in a way that fits today’s on-the-go lifestyle, bringing products to them in a way more convenient than ever before.

            Automated retail has been used to push a great variety of products. Proactiv uses kiosks to give customers an easy way to access skin care products, while still retaining the exclusivity of their brand. McDonald’s has added kiosks in each restaurant to give customers an additional method of ordering food. Carvana has even begun using AR to change the used-car industry, by creating huge automated “vending machines” where users pick up cars they purchase online.

            Though the products may differ, many companies have added automated retail to their business models. Automated retail offers convenience to customers through visual-appeal and self-service. It also increases brand recognition for companies, as automated retail kiosks are placed in high-traffic areas that may not be suitable for brick and mortar shops. The fact that automated retail kiosks are self-serve entities also reduces labor and overhead costs, while increasing profitability.

            Automated retail kiosks can uniquely position DECA teams for success, as well, and DECA National Board Advisory Member, The Spirit Box, is one way chapters can transition into this industry. The Spirit Box is an automated retail enterprise program that dispenses school spirit merchandise while giving students the opportunity to put classroom learning to practice.  DECA advisor, Annie Hulse said, “The Spirit Box is easily aligned with the required sections of the SBE certification. This allows the students to make clear connections between day to day business operations and what they're learning in the classroom.”

            The turn-key fundraiser provides immediate hands-on opportunities for students to implement DECA curriculum, but also continues working for the team after-hours, as customers are able to purchase spirit wear on evenings and weekends. These extended hours make The Spirit Box a great addition to preexisting school stores or a complete business entity in itself.

            Automated retail such as The Spirit Box can open up opportunities for businesses to leverage the latest technology to reach customers in a new way. How could your DECA team enhance customer experience using Automated Retail?