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Sonae and Sensei pioneer Europe's first autonomous shopping experience

Overview

In Lisbon, Sensei and Sonae launched Continente Labs, Europe’s first autonomous store. Opened in 2021, the store offers a seamless, checkout-free shopping experience with real-time basket tracking. Combining invisible cameras, proprietary weight sensors, and AI algorithms, Continente Labs sets a new standard for autonomous retail.

Client

Continente Labs

Brand

Industry

Supermarkets

Solution

Store

Location

Lisbon, Portugal

Opening date

May 2021

SKUs

1793

Store size

140

sqm

Items sold since opening

+4 M

A new era of convenience in Europe: Continente Labs

Sonae—a leading multinational known for its flagship supermarket brand, Continente—has partnered with Sensei to transform the retail landscape by opening Portugal's first autonomous store: Continente Labs. Launched in 2021, this innovative store marks the beginning of a new shopping era, blending cutting-edge technology with everyday convenience.

"Working with such innovative minds has been delightful, as they help shape the future of retail, making the shopping journey hassle-free from the moment customers enter the store."

Marlos Silva

Digital & Innovation Area Leader at Sonae

Real-time baskets: a game-changing addition



When Continente Labs first opened, it introduced Lisbon to the concept of autonomous shopping. Since then, the store has evolved, with the most notable upgrade being the addition of real-time basket tracking. This innovation allows customers to instantly see their virtual shopping cart update as they shop, offering unparalleled transparency and ease. The integration of this feature has transformed the shopping experience, making it even more seamless and intuitive.


Redefining convenience for the modern shopper

Continente Labs, located in a vibrant area bustling with students and professionals, is leading the way in retail innovation. The store offers a diverse selection of products, from fresh fruit and baked goods to grab-and-go coffee options, all designed to meet the needs of Lisbon’s fast-paced urban population. Its innovative design and efficient layout ensure a quick, hassle-free shopping experience, perfect for those seeking convenience without compromising on quality or variety.

Setting the standard for Europe

As the first autonomous store in Europe, Continente Labs represents a bold leap forward for the retail industry. With Sensei’s AI-powered platform, the store integrates sensors and computer vision, allowing customers to simply tap their card, pick up their items, and leave—no scanning, no waiting.

With the launch of Continente Labs, Sonae and Sensei have laid the foundation for the future of autonomous retail in Portugal, combining convenience, innovation, and customer-centric design in the heart of Lisbon.

"Partnering with Sensei has transformed our approach to retail, creating a seamless shopping experience at Continente stores without cashiers or barriers. This collaboration has allowed us to rethink how customers engage with our stores and products, enhancing both convenience and organization."

Marlos Silva
Digital & Innovation Area Leader at Sonae

Stories that justify the hype

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