A first in Hong Kong: Unstaffed supermarkets go into service

Three new supermarkets that opened their doors this month in Hong Kong have launched a notable period in the retail sector. In stores operating without human staff, the entire shopping process is carried out by AI‑powered robots.

Developed by Beijing‑based robotics company Galbot“Xiao Gai”autonomous systems named Xiao Gai carry out many processes on their own, from picking products off shelves in supermarkets to payment transactions.

There's a Robot at the Beginning and the End of Shopping

In next‑generation supermarkets, the services customers need are provided by AI‑powered robots. While tracking products on shelves, the robots also manage inventory and customer service.

The system was designed to allow operations inside the store to continue without the need for human intervention.

Can Provide 24-Hour Service

Xiao GaiOne of the most striking features of the robots is that they can operate continuously for 24 hours. Robots equipped with multilingual communication capabilities can interact with customers from different countries.

Customers can select their products and complete their purchases without waiting for staff. The app especially attracts the keen interest of tech enthusiasts.

Could Transform the Retail Sector

Three markets in Hong Kong are currently being evaluated as a pilot project. Galbot plans to increase the number of fully robot-operated markets if the system proves commercially successful.

If this model becomes widespread, processes such as inventory tracking, customer service, product placement, and payment in stores are expected to become automated. According to experts, the application could be one of the technological developments that may lead to changes in the ways of working and store management models in the retail sector in the future.

The success of the Hong Kong implementation will also be an important indicator of whether similar robotic systems will be used in supermarket chains worldwide.