Unmanned stores are accelerating worldwide.

• January 19, 2026

Recently, convenience retail giant 7-Eleven opened its first self-service store in Melbourne’s CBD, offering food, beverages, and snacks exclusively through vending machines. The move aims to improve staff safety amid rising retail crime while reducing labor costs.

7-Eleven stated that if the pilot proves successful, more automated stores will be launched in the future. Globally, vending machines, smart payment systems, and unmanned retail are rapidly reshaping the retail landscape.

Against this backdrop, VEND ASEAN – Smart Retail & Vending Expo will showcase unmanned store solutions, vending technologies, smart payment, and AI-driven retail innovations, empowering businesses to explore new opportunities across the ASEAN market.