Supermarket Riewe tests new shopping concept – so far unique in Germany

Those living in rural areas often have to travel a few kilometers before coming to the next supermarket Reached. Weekly shopping is very time consuming and you rarely feel like standing in long line at the supermarket after work. “Jumping to the store for a moment” is difficult in the countryside – especially because supermarkets have strict opening hours.

To overcome this problem, supermarket chains are testing rave The Upper Franconian municipality of Pettstad currently has a completely new concept: About 2,000 local residents can go shopping around the clock, seven days a week at “Joseph’s Nahkoff Box”.

First “walk-in store” without staff opened in Bavaria

On a sales area of ​​approximately 39 square meters – located locally in the village and operated without employees – there are a total of 700 items in this category. According to its own statement, while putting together a manageable range, Reeve made sure there were many organic products and that regional suppliers also kept their products on the shelves. In addition to alcoholic beverages and spirits, you’ll find everything you need in the small “walk-in store” for your daily needs.

Bank card is the key to business.Image: DPA / Achim Bachhausen

Access to the small shop is achieved with an EC card or credit card, which can then also be used to make cashless payments at the self-checkout counter. At this point, the selected items are scanned individually and independently.

Shopping box to ensure supply in rural areas

“With this trial, we aim to contribute to finding an answer to the question of future-oriented local supply in remote locations, in rural areas and village settlement areas,” explained Peter Malley, Reeve’s Divisional Director in a Press release, “Our Nahkouf format, which secures local supplies where all of our competitors have withdrawn, is perfect for this.”

The operation and maintenance of the branches is ensured by the Nahkauf clerk. “Nahkauf merchants are also socially responsible and are there where there are no competitors,” explained Florian Sorensen, Nahkauf’s national sales manager.

(fw)