Vending

UK arena unveils autonomous market

Photo: Cerib - stock.adobe.com

March 12, 2026

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Co-op Live, the U.K.'s largest live entertainment arena, has launched Europe's first fully frictionless autonomous self-serve market, according to an Event Industry News report.

The market is powered by AiFi's spatial-intelligence platform and Boxbar Tech's automated beverage technology. Installed in partnership with sports and entertainment company Oak View Group, the market was designed to handle high traffic during major events. The system allows guests to tap a card to enter, select food and drinks and leave without traditional checkout lines.

The market uses AiFi's AI-powered camera technology to track items that guests pick up, enabling a cashierless experience. Visitors can grab hot food, grab-and-go items and pour their own beverages using Boxbar Tech's automated self-serve beverage system.

The system recognizes drink pours, allowing fans to serve themselves beer, cider or Guinness without waiting in line or interacting with a cashier.
Arena officials say the installation was designed to maximize speed and convenience in a compact, high-traffic space. By streamlining food and beverage service, the technology allows fans to spend less time in lines and more time enjoying events.