First there was the swipe, then the tap. Now the latest evolution in payment technology is bringing even more convenience to the c-store experience, cutting the lines and eliminating the need to check out at a register altogether.
In Minot, N.D., Enerbase Cooperative’s new South Broadway c-store is bringing new meaning to the grab-and-go concept with a state-of-the-art self-serve system.
Utilizing Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, customers register a payment method before they enter the store, creating a virtual “cart.” Once inside, customers can browse their favorite road trip snacks and beverages, and when they’re done shopping, they simply walk out.
A network of more than 200 cameras and sensors tracks customers as they shop and registers the items they’ve picked up. Once customers leave, they are automatically charged for the items and a receipt is emailed to them.
As new technologies continue to shape the brick-and-mortar shopping experience, the Enerbase team invested in the cashless payment system to embrace the changing preferences of their customer base.
“In the retail space, we’ve seen that customers are leaning toward more convenience and less contact,” says Shawna Chilcoat, c-store operations manager for Enerbase.
“With this system, we can give them that new level of convenience. To be able to just walk in, take what you want and leave, the process couldn’t be easier, and that’s what we want to deliver for our customers: a shopping experience so fast and simple, they don’t even have to think about it.”
Read more stories about how cooperatives are finding creative ways to meet community needs:
- CBH Co-op embraces retail opportunities in the Black Hills
- Northern Star Cooperative helps rural communities thrive
- Curating the standout c-store experience
Check out the full Winter 2025 C magazine with this article and more.
