AI-Powered Vending Machines Are Revolutionizing Gym Retail in Seoul
In the heart of Seoul, gyms are witnessing a technological transformation that is changing how fitness enthusiasts purchase supplements and workout gear. Instead of traditional checkout counters, gym members now encounter sleek, AI-powered vending machines. These machines offer a seamless shopping experience, allowing customers to select products such as protein drinks, health supplements, or gym accessories and complete their purchase in seconds with just a few taps on a nearby screen.
This shift not only enhances convenience for users but also provides significant benefits for gym operators. The AI technology enables real-time inventory management and allows businesses to develop targeted marketing strategies based on detailed consumer data. This level of insight helps optimize sales and improve customer engagement.
A Startup’s Journey from Concept to Innovation
The driving force behind this innovation is Exiters, a startup based in Seoul. Founded by CEO Noh Jae-wook, the company has been at the forefront of integrating AI into retail environments within gyms. Before launching Exiters in November 2022, Noh had already made waves in the fitness industry by creating a protein drink brand that won a national branding award. However, the pandemic disrupted his plans to bring the product to market through traditional retail channels.
Faced with these challenges, Noh began exploring alternative ways to sell his product. He started by placing a mini fridge and a self-checkout kiosk in a gym, which received an overwhelmingly positive response. Within a year, this concept expanded to over 1,000 gyms across South Korea.
However, the early model faced issues with theft and unreliable inventory tracking. To address these concerns, Noh turned to artificial intelligence to create a more secure and efficient system. His breakthrough came in the form of an ultra-low-power on-device AI solution that can recognize products quickly without the need for servers or complex infrastructure.
Cost-Effective and Scalable Solutions
This innovation significantly reduces the cost of implementing AI-driven retail systems. Traditional AI vending units typically cost between 7 to 8 million won (approximately $5,500 to $6,300), while Exiters offers its entire system—including the fridge—for just over 1 million won ($780). The company generates revenue by taking a share of sales from each unit, making it a financially viable option for gym operators.
Currently, Exiters holds exclusive distribution rights at 1,300 gyms across South Korea for the next two years. Beyond vending machines, the startup has developed a platform that connects advertisers directly with vendors, eliminating intermediaries and streamlining the advertising process. This initiative has already generated around 450 million won in revenue.
Expanding Horizons and Global Ambitions
Looking ahead, Noh envisions expanding the reach of Exiters' technology beyond gyms. “We plan to link our AI system to automated restocking platforms and expand product categories,” he said. “The unmanned retail market in regions like Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, the U.S., and Southeast Asia is worth about 100 trillion won ($78 billion). We believe our affordable, innovative solution can compete globally.”
With its combination of cutting-edge technology and practical affordability, Exiters is poised to redefine the way consumers shop in gyms and other retail spaces. As the demand for seamless, contactless shopping experiences continues to grow, the company's approach could serve as a blueprint for future retail innovations.
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