Kende Retail Operations Partners with Coca-Cola HBC Group

Kende Retail Operation connects with Coca-Cola HBC Group as it lays claim to autonomous stores first in Hungary.

Kende Retail Operation reports the opening of the first autonomous store in Hungary, with a second one soon to follow.

This is the result of a partnership with Coca-Cola HBC Hungary which plans to open 15 unmanned stores over the next three years, investing a total of HUF 250 million, and aims to triple its revenues from the autonomous retail offering by the end of 2026.

“The launch of the first autonomous retail store represents a unique innovation not only in Hungary but also within the Coca-Cola HBC Group, spanning 29 countries. Over the years since the Covid-19 pandemic, the domestic retail sector has undergone significant transformation,” said Ágnes Kovács, General Manager at Coca-Cola HBC Hungary.

“New technologies have taken root, new shopping habits have emerged, the sector faces a notable labour shortage, and digitisation is pervasive. As a leading food and beverage company, we strive to keep up with these changes by investing in technologies that provide long-term business advantages.”

When a customer enters the sales area, the cameras associate their physical appearance with a virtual shopping cart. This system links the customer, the selected product, and their personal profile created in the “Take It Easy” application exclusively developed by Kende Retail Kft. for this technology.

As customers move through the store, cameras track their movements, and built-in sensors monitor the contents of their cart. Once the customer completes their shopping, they leave the store. The system then totals their cart and initiates the payment transaction. This technology does not collect facial recognition data, it exclusively monitors movements and activities necessary for seamless shopping, fully complying with GDPR regulatory frameworks.

The solution is located at Yettel Hungary’s headquarters in Törökbálint, where it has become part of the daily lives of the 800-900 employees working there on primary office days. In the store, employees can purchase products distributed by Coca-Cola HBC Hungary (carbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks, natural mineral waters, energy drinks), as well as snacks, prepared meals, canned goods, dairy products, and hygiene items.

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“Innovation and adapting to customer needs have always been a priority for Kende Retail. The appearance of so-called micro markets, such as the one in Yettel’s headquarters, marks the beginning of a new era in retail,” said Gábor Kende, Founder and Owner of Kende Retail Operation Kft.

“These smart, automated stores not only transform the shopping experience but also expand opportunities for retailers. Our goal is to open a new chapter in retail with our partners, where shopping becomes more personalised, faster, and more convenient than ever. We are proud that Coca-Cola HBC Hungary was among the first to recognise the potential of automated retail, and we hope to introduce consumers to these pioneering shopping habits together.”

“According to Yettel’s philosophy, customer centricity starts from within: satisfied, well-balanced employees create better customer experiences in telecommunications as well,” said Enikő Szalai, Yettel’s Deputy CEO at HR.

“Opening the unmanned store at our company’s headquarters is part of a thoughtful employer strategy aimed at enhancing employee comfort, well-being, and meeting their daily needs. This development not only provides convenience but also sends a clear message: Yettel truly cares about its employees and actively works to make the workplace an inspiring, supportive environment.”

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