Sodexo Live! is stepping up its innovative new tech offerings with the addition of autonomous store technology by AiFi, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) and shopping solutions provider, at two ASM Global-managed venues in Salt Lake County, Utah: Salt Palace Convention Center and Mountain America Expo Center.

Designed to streamline throughput and ensure a more seamless experience for attendees of trade shows, conventions, meetings and other events, the store has opened as Salt Shaker Grab-and-Go at Salt Palace Convention Center, marking AiFi’s debut in a convention center setting, and Storm Mountain Provisions at Mountain America Expo Center.

The concept utilizes AiFi's AI-powered camera and computer vision technology, allowing shoppers to enter the store, make their selections and enjoy a check-free experience as they walk out without having to wait in any lines.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Sodexo Live! — a proven leader in the convention center industry — to debut and expand our technology to this category of live events,” said Joe Jorczak, head of global revenue, AiFi. “We’re confident that event-goers will love the combination of getting lightning-fast service without sacrificing quality food and beverage options.”

The next-generation store offers pastries, sandwiches, soups, coffee and other quick-serve items created by Sodexo Live!’s culinary team. During busy conventions and other events hosting thousands of people, AiFi offers on-the-go attendees a way to access delicious food and beverage without slowing down.

“We always strive to bring new technology to our venues to improve the guest experience,” said Greg Fender, executive vice president, Sodexo Live! North America. “By ushering AiFi into the meetings and conventions world, we’re putting our attendees first by expanding their payment options and giving them new ways to experience and enjoy their time with us.”