Russia Launches Phygital Grocery Stores with No Cashiers

A new hybrid retail model uses automated systems and mobile apps to fill orders in just seven minutes—solving labor shortages and saving on rent.

A new type of retail experience has launched in Russia: phygital grocery stores that eliminate the need for cashiers. Customers place their orders via a touchscreen terminal or mobile app using a QR code. Once submitted, the system picks and packs the order in about seven minutes. Shoppers can track order status in real time through a digital screen or smartphone.

According to the press office of the Pyaterochka retail chain, the new store format allows up to 70% of the retail floor to be converted into storage space. This shift addresses workforce shortages and cuts down on commercial rental costs.

Human staff are still present—but they focus on stocking shelves and verifying customer age for restricted items. The system supports both in-store order fulfillment and delivery logistics.

Other retailers have also experimented with 24/7 stores featuring QR-code entry and self-checkout terminals.

Looking ahead, fully autonomous payment systems are planned. In these stores, simply scanning a loyalty card would trigger automatic payment from a linked account.