Just as there are a growing number of unstaffed convenience stores and robot-run hotels being opened around the world, China is home to the autonomous venture 'Supermonkey,' which takes the form of a staffless gym.
Supermonkey has refurbished shipping containers set up in various locations, which can be accessed via WeChat on one's phone to book a time slot and pay for a workout session. With a one-time PIN code, users are able to gain access to the space for a temporary amount of time.
The start-up aims to rival conventional gyms that offer trainers and support staff in favor of a model that allows greater flexibility, especially when it comes to the types of equipment that is stocked inside each of the pods. Supermonkey aims keep expanding, in the hopes of having 100 locations open in 2018.
Staffless Gym Start-Ups
China's 'Supermonkey' Lets Gym-Goers Access a Workout Pod Via Their Phone
Trend Themes
1. Staffless Gyms - The rise of staffless gyms presents an opportunity for disruptive innovation in the fitness industry by providing convenient and flexible workout options to consumers.
2. Autonomous Ventures - The emergence of autonomous ventures like 'Supermonkey' highlights the potential for disruptive innovation in various industries by leveraging technology to create unmanned and self-service solutions.
3. Mobile App Integration - The integration of mobile apps such as WeChat in the fitness industry enables disruptive innovation by allowing users to easily book and access gym facilities at their convenience.
Industry Implications
1. Fitness - The rise of staffless gyms in the fitness industry creates opportunities for disruptive innovation in terms of accessibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
2. Hospitality - The concept of autonomous ventures in the hospitality industry, such as robot-run hotels, presents opportunities for disruptive innovation through the development of self-service and automated experiences.
3. Technology - The integration of mobile apps and unmanned technologies in various industries demonstrates the potential for disruptive innovation in the technology sector by enabling efficient and convenient consumer experiences.