Canberra, Australia – In a groundbreaking move, the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) has introduced YalaPlus, a cutting-edge campus convenience store that leverages Amazon’s revolutionary Just Walk Out technology. CIT became the first educational institution in the southern hemisphere to adopt this innovative AI-driven shopping experience, promising to simplify student life and enhance accessibility.
Revolutionizing campus shopping
CIT has embraced Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology, a sophisticated system that employs artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and manage customer interactions within the store. This pioneering technology, utilizing computer vision and deep learning techniques, eliminates the need for traditional checkout lines, enabling students to complete their purchases swiftly and seamlessly.
Seamless integration by cognizant
Professional services firm Cognizant played a pivotal role in integrating this cutting-edge solution, ensuring that students enjoy a hassle-free payment experience. By seamlessly combining Amazon’s technology with existing infrastructure, CIT has created an efficient and convenient shopping environment for its students.
Streamlined shopping experience
At YalaPlus, students gain entry to the store by using their credit cards or mobile wallets at the entry gate. Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology then takes charge, tracking the items students select from the shelves and adding them to a virtual shopping session. When students finish their shopping, they can simply leave the store without waiting in line, as their credit cards are automatically charged for the items they take.
A Student-Centric approach
Andrew Scotford, CEO of the CIT Student Association, emphasized the positive impact of this innovation on students, especially those with demanding schedules. He noted, “Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology will benefit all students, especially those studying outside of regular business hours. Many CIT students are balancing work, study, and training, so flexibility and accessibility are important to them. There are also 48 students who live on the CIT Bruce Campus that don’t have easy access to nearby shopping. YalaPlus now offers convenient access to products such as food, beverages, and other essential items.”
Embracing progress
Christine Robertson, the interim CEO of CIT, expressed her excitement about the institution’s forward-looking approach. She stated, “CIT will open a new state-of-the-art, digitally connected Woden CIT campus in 2025, but innovation doesn’t wait. We’re committed to uplifting our existing facilities and experiences for students and staff.”
Expanding the vision
The CIT Student Association has ambitious plans to expand this groundbreaking shopping experience to other CIT campuses, with stores slated to open at Fyshwick and Bruce in early 2024. This move demonstrates a commitment to providing convenient and accessible services to students across multiple locations.
A growing trend in Australia
YalaPlus at CIT is not the only location in Australia to embrace Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology. Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium is already home to two other stores that offer this revolutionary shopping experience.
As CIT enters its 95th year, YalaPlus represents a significant step forward in providing an enhanced, tech-driven student experience. The CIT community can look forward to more innovative solutions in the years to come, as the institution continues to prioritize flexibility, accessibility, and convenience.
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