Piko24 responds to key modern retail challenges as it preps network of AI powered autonomous stores in Poland

Piko24 is working on a network of 24/7 autonomous stores in Poland which allow for instant entry, product selection and automatic payment, powered by artificial intelligence (natch!).

The first locations are set to open in the near future.

In a LinkedIn post, Piko24's Krzysztof Gawalek, said: "I have been an active entrepreneur for over 20 years. Today, together with Piotr Beaupré, we are entering the market with an innovative model of autonomous stores that respond to the key challenges of modern retail - growing customer expectations regarding convenience, speed and availability of shopping."

He added: "Globally, we are observing the dynamic development of retail technologies, where automation, AI and vision systems are changing the way we shop. Poland is not lagging behind - consumers are increasingly choosing maintenance free solutions, and the market is ready for a new quality of shopping experience."

"Our network of unique autonomous stores is the answer to these changes. We create places where customers can make a purchase without queues, without checkouts, 24/7, using the latest and attention - Polish technologies. This is an important step in the development of retail in Poland. I am glad that we can be part of it!"

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Autonomous stores will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which will open for entries in March, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.