Lots of stores have buy online, pick up in-store at this point.
But only Walmart has the BOPIS machine. The giant tower-like machine, which bears something of a resemblance to the obelisk in the movie “2001,” automatically distributes online orders to customers who come to lay their hands upon it. Currently housed in Bentonville, AR, the machine reportedly lives directly inside the store’s entrance.
When customers order online, they are presented an order number. Upon tower arrival, the number is inputted into the machine, which then distributes their purchase.
“We know speed and convenience are important to our customers, and we’re always looking for new ways to bring it to them,” Walmart spokesman Kory Lundberg noted. “We are excited to be one of the first companies to test this new technology and are looking forward to hearing feedback from our customers and associates.”
Field Agent, a consulting firm that conducts on-location auditing and research, had several agents attempt to take the machine for a test run. No major negative reports came in.
As for what Walmart’s plans are for the BOPIS machine pilot, that remains a bit unclear at present.
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