Standard Cognition, an AI-powered autonomous checkout solutions provider, and Mars Wrigley, a manufacturer of chocolate, chewing gum, mints and fruity confections, have partnered to help retailers evolve into a new world of autonomous checkout by integrating seamless technology and impulse category sales.
Mars initially reached out to Standard, suggesting the two companies work together to better understand what impact autonomous checkouts would have on shoppers’ experience, particularly at the end of the trip when Mars says they’re traditionally seeking products to ‘Reward, Recharge and Remind’—much of which traditionally took place while waiting in line for a cashier. The two companies could then collaborate to bring retailers new recommendations on how to design stores that balance operational efficiency, shopper satisfaction and financial optimization.
“Standard had been thinking about that issue too, so the Mars inquiry was very timely,” said Michael Suswal, co-founder and COO of Standard Cognition. “We leapt at the chance to work with Mars—a category captain with 100-plus years of insights, research and innovation—to help retailers address this challenge.”
“Mars selected Standard as its partner because it’s clear to us that they bring advanced technology in autonomous checkout, offer a great value proposition to retailers and share with us a mutual passion and vision for this space,” said Vincent Hummel, global category leadership director – new transaction points at Mars Wrigley. “We’re excited to work with Standard and our retailers around the world to define the future of autonomous checkout.”
During the initial phase of the partnership, Standard and Mars will educate each other on their respective capabilities across technology, shopper journey insights and the intersections of operational efficiencies and merchandising excellence for impulse in a cashierless world. The companies are working together to create convenient and positive experiences for shoppers in a way that will meet retailers’ holistic objectives.
Standard Cognition was one of the first startups in the autonomous checkout space, and first to open a cashierless store in San Francisco. Recently named to Y Combinator’s Top Companies List for 2019, Standard is currently working with retailers across the U.S. and the world. The company has raised $86 million in funding from investors including CRV, Initialized Capital, EQT Ventures and Y Combinator.
