JD.com launches robotic shops in the Netherlands
Chinese online retail giant JD.com has opened two robotic shops under the new brand name Ochama in the Netherlands.
The first two stores are situated in Leiden and Rotterdam and further shops are set to open in Amsterdam and Utrecht.
The move marks the first time that JD.com has opened a physical retail store in Europe.
Pass Lei, general manager of Ochama, JD Worldwide. said: “With rich experience in retail and cutting-edge logistics technologies that the company has accumulated over the years, we aspire to create an unprecedented shopping format for customers in Europe with better price and service.”
The omnichannel model enables shoppers to order items online through Ochama’s app, where products include fresh and packaged food, household appliances, as well as beauty, mother and child products, fashion and home furnishings.
When visiting the shop, customers witness a fleet of robots, including automated ground vehicles and robotic arms, engage in picking, sorting, and transferring the merchandise. After scanning the Ochama app’s QR code at the check-out, shoppers can watch as their orders are carried to them by the conveyer belt as part of a cashierless shopping trip.
In addition, customers can visit the pick-up shop’s showroom to view Ochama’s product assortments, or they can choose a next-day home delivery service without visiting the store.
Ochama’s chief operation officer Mark den Butter said: “Dutch people are passionate for innovation and a green environment, and Ochama’s shopping format is designed to contribute to both aspects. There will be no queue and fewer traffic jams to do the chores as they can go for convenience, benefits and everything in one stop at Ochama.”
