FairPrice ramps up digital push with new ‘Store of Tomorrow’ programme

Innovations include self-checkouts and biometric payments.

FairPrice Group (FPG) has launched its Store of Tomorrow (SOT) programme, a new initiative to modernise its supermarkets using technologies such as generative AI, data analytics, automation, and biometric recognition.

The programme will first roll out at the upcoming FairPrice Finest outlet in Punggol Digital District, opening in the third quarter of 2025.

FPG plans to test over 20 new digital solutions annually for the next three years, aiming to offer more personalised, efficient, and cost-effective shopping experiences.

Group CEO Vipul Chawla said the initiative will help customers save money through tailored deals based on their preferences, budgets, and shopping habits.

The programme was announced at the National Retail Federation’s Big Show APAC 2025 at Marina Bay Sands, where FPG showcased how its technology, supported by Google Cloud AI, will power seamless integration across its physical and digital channels.

Amongst the key technologies is the Smart Cart, currently being tested at FairPrice Finest Sengkang Grand Mall. These carts feature built-in displays for navigation, real-time promotions, product recommendations, and self-checkout.

Another innovation is Vision AI, which uses CCTV and video analytics to alert staff to empty shelves, long queues, or hazards like spills.

Grocer Genie, an AI-powered staff portal, helps manage store operations by assigning tasks and tracking key metrics like sales and customer satisfaction. It can automatically respond to in-store issues and provide data-driven recommendations to improve performance.

FPG is also working on biometric payment, allowing customers to link palm scans to their mobile numbers and FPG App accounts for quicker checkout and reward point collection.

Integration with MyInfo will further personalise deals and simplify the discount process for eligible seniors and community health cardholders, removing the need for physical cards.

FPG also plans to roll out digital price cards across its 164 outlets within the next three years, cutting down on paper use and manual work while giving customers real-time pricing and promotion updates.

The SOT programme is supported by a strategic partnership with Google Cloud.