The operator of a fish farm in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, is now selling locally produced shellfish to consumers through vending machines. The president of the firm, Kintaro Uchiumi, reported that the business lost over half of its restaurant sales amid the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown orders.
The Kanehachi Suisan farm began leveraging vending machines in December to sell shellfish directly to consumers. The fishery offers a lineup of quahog hard-shell clams (the city’s local specialty) in sizes from mini (40 to 50 grams) to mega (250 grams). To support brand loyalty, the fisher also provides QR codes that let customers see recipes and recommendations for using the clams.
Uchiumi said, "I hope people can enjoy the taste of Funabashi in their home."
Shellfish-Selling Vending Machines
Kanehachi Suisan Fishery Sells Shellfish Via Vending Machines
Trend Themes
1. Direct-to-consumer Vending Machines - The use of vending machines to sell products directly to consumers creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for retailers looking to expand their reach and offer contactless transactions.
2. Localized Vending Machines - The use of vending machines to sell local products creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for regional suppliers looking to expand their customer base and promote their brand while adapting to pandemic restrictions.
3. Product Recommendations Via QR Codes - The use of QR codes to provide product recommendations creates a disruptive innovation opportunity for retailers looking to enhance the customer experience and increase brand loyalty through personalized content.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage Retail - The food and beverage retail industry could use vending machines to offer a wider variety of products to consumers, promote local specialties, and implement contactless transactions in compliance with pandemic restrictions.
2. Hospitality and Tourism - The hospitality and tourism industry could use vending machines to offer souvenirs and local products to visitors while ensuring a safe and accessible shopping experience in compliance with pandemic restrictions.
3. Retail Technology - The retail technology industry could develop new vending machine solutions, including personalized content, contactless payment options, and remote maintenance, to meet the changing demands of consumers and retailers amid the pandemic.