Potboy Group Collaborates with ARB IOT Group to launch Malaysia 1st AI-Driven Cashierless & Check-out free Kiosks at 18 MRT Stations

Kuala Lumpur, 23 Jun 2023 – Potboy Group is cracking further into offline consumer market by opening its first batch of PotboyGO, cashierless & check-out free Kiosks at 18 MRT Stations spontaneously. MRT commuters can now scan a QR code, open the chiller door, pick whatever they want and walk away. Zero human interaction is required.

Two years ago, the online grocer opened its first physical store, PotboyMart and currently operating 80 physical stores. Potboy Group has been looking out for innovative solutions to shorten the waiting time of check-out for its customers. Since inception of PotboyMart, Potboy Group has been working with ARB IOT Group Limited (listed in Nasdaq) on a remarkable journey of Pick-N-Go machines development. This revolutionary Pick-N-Go technology, which originated from the United States, has changed the way we interact with vending machines. Pick-N-Go machine lies in its integration of Internet of Things (IoT) and Object Recognition AI-driven sensors which form the backbone technology of PotboyGO Kiosks and provides seamless shopping experience to its customers.

YB Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science Technology & Innovation Malaysia stated, "The convergence of technology and convenience is transforming how we live, work, and interact. Today’s launching marks a significant milestone in revolutionising the retail industry through advanced IoT and AI technology.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with our digital literacy goals, reducing the digital divide and promoting economic growth through technology. We commend ARB IOT Group and all parties involved for their commitment to innovation and digital transformation. We are proud to witness local enterprises harnessing the power of IoT, demonstrating the capabilities of our nation's industry."

Witnessed by major industry Brand Principals, namely Nestle, Dutch Lady, Coca-Cola, Spritzer, F&N and Unicharm, this historical groundbreaking revolutionary retail kiosks were officially launched by YB Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science Technology & Innovation Malaysia, together with Potboy Group’s technology partner ARB IOT Group Limited and Premise owner, MRT Corp.

Eddie Chew, CEO of Potboy Group, said, "The adaptation of Pick-N-Go technology has not merely transformed the manless kiosks of Potboy Group at MRT stations (PotboyGO) into a high-speed self-service kiosk, but the AI-backing technology is sophisticated enough to ease our operation planning and significantly reduce operating costs. Furthermore, FMCG Principals can leverage this technology to market their products to their desired consumers better."

"We are looking forward to bringing this convenience to all MRT stations and other high-traffic infrastructures such as airports, bus depots, universities, and hospitals. We aim to achieve approximately RM1.0 billion in sales via deploying these technologies." Chew added.

ARB IOT Group Ltd’s CEO Dato’ Sri Larry Liew Kok Le, said: “The Pick-N-Go machines will provide consumers with a seamless and efficient shopping experience, demonstrating the immense potential of automation in everyday life. With a simple scan, customers can retrieve products, and upon closing the door, payment is automatically deducted. This groundbreaking system enables the machine to track the selected items accurately."

The initiative will roll out in two phases. The first phase aims to establish approximately 100 units across 18 MRT stations. The target for the subsequent phase is to have 200 machines across 50 locations by the end of this year.

Potboy Group will assume the role of machine ownership and operator, with ARB IOT Group providing the Pick-N-Go technologies solutions. Potboy Group will provide 100% manless transactions, embodying the next wave of retail trends. This revolutionary Pick-N-Go technology guarantees customers efficient, convenient, and safe shopping experiences.

"Leverage on our Nasdaq-listed entity’s technology is at the forefront of IoT and AI innovation. Our technology's manless transactions and operational ease are game-changers in the retail industry. We are thrilled to see our solutions substantially benefit Potboy Group and its customers,” Dato’ Sri Larry added.