Published • 9 Jun 2025
Think about the last time you were stuck in front of an old vending machine, coins clinking, waiting for that inevitable spiral to jam and ruin your snack plans. It’s 2025—surely we deserve better. Enter computer vision and the PicoCooler Vision, the smarter, more secure way to bring unattended retail into the modern age.
In this quick guide, we’ll explain what computer vision actually is (without the jargon), how it powers the PicoCooler Vision, and why this technology is a game-changer for vending operators across the UK.
What is Computer Vision, Anyway?
At its core, computer vision is all about teaching computers to “see” and understand images, just like we do. In the world of vending and self-service retail, that means cameras inside the cooler can identify exactly which product someone picks up—no barcodes, no scanning, no fuss. It’s the same sort of technology behind facial recognition or self-driving cars, but here, it’s ensuring that every sandwich, crisp packet, and smoothie is accounted for.
How Does PicoCooler Vision Work?
PicoCooler Vision puts this modern technology right inside your cooler. Here’s what happens:
- Tap to Unlock: A shopper taps a card or phone to unlock the door—ensuring only paying customers can access the goods.
- Grab What You Fancy: The door opens, and customers help themselves to what they want. Five discreet cameras keep track of what comes off the shelves.
- Close and Go: When the door closes, the system tallies up what’s gone and charges the shopper automatically. No scanning. No queues. No headaches.
From the operator’s perspective, it’s a dream. No more fiddling with jammed coils or worrying about whether a product’s shape fits a vending spiral. You can stock drinks, sandwiches, yoghurts, crisps, and more—all in one compact cooler.
A Better Experience for Everyone
Picture this: an office worker grabs a sandwich and drink in seconds: no queues, no coin jams, no waiting for a vending machine to decide if it fancies working today. Or a hotel guest in need of a midnight snack: a tap, a grab, and they’re back to their room in no time. It’s as easy as opening the fridge at home but smarter and more secure.
For shoppers, it’s fast and intuitive. For operators, it means more sales because when the experience is effortless, people buy more.
Worried About Theft? Don’t Be.
One reason some operators have stuck with old-school vending machines is the fear of shrinkage, that if people can pick their own items, some might help themselves without paying. The PicoCooler Vision has that covered. The cooler stays locked until payment is verified, and those cameras? They’re not just for show. They track every item in real-time, so you can rest easy knowing your stock is secure and your revenue is protected.
More Variety, More Revenue
Traditional vending machines are great at one thing: dispensing cans of fizzy drinks and the odd chocolate bar. But what if you want to sell fresh sandwiches and salads or a fancy energy drink? Coils and spirals just can’t handle it.
PicoCooler Vision changes the game. No more worrying about whether a product will fit. If it fits on the shelf, it’s fair game. That means more options for shoppers and a bigger basket size for you. Some operators have seen revenue jump up to 4× when they switch to this kind of smart cooler compared to a traditional vending machine. That’s the kind of uplift any business can get behind.
Why This Matters for Your UK Vending Business
British consumers are used to tapping to pay, whether it’s on the tube or at the corner shop. They’re also used to having choices. PicoCooler Vision brings both of these to the unattended retail world. Forget the queues and scanning hassles. Enjoy a simpler, faster, and more profitable way to run your vending business.
So, if you’re tired of wrestling with old vending machines or stuck offering the same old snacks, maybe it’s time to see how computer vision can work for you.
Ready to Make the Switch?
If you’re curious about bringing PicoCooler Vision to your site, reach out to 365 Retail Markets for a demo. Let’s show you how this smart cooler can boost your business and delight your customers.