Sensei secures €15 million in Series A funding to keep changing the way the world shops.
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
Store size
sqm
Items sold since opening
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.
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.
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.
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.
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