Published • 9 Sep 2025
CV Express™ is a high technology retrofit kit that turns pre-approved models of large capacity coolers into a smart, effortless unattended grab & go retail experience through automatic product recognition technology. With a vast capacity for merchandising, operators open the door to enhanced consumer convenience across a wider variety of location types.
Have questions about CV Express™? This FAQ provides an overview of CV Express™, the innovative retail solution designed for businesses aiming to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency. Read more to find answers to common questions about CV Express™ and its versatile capabilities.
FAQs:
How do customers purchase items from this device?
Customers can purchase items from the CV Express™ by unlocking the device, taking their items, and walking away. The cooler door is unlocked by scanning a QR code with a mobile phone and quickly inputting a payment in the web application that opens up, process which is made even faster and repeatable by the presence of Apple Pay and Google Wallet options. When the customer then removes the items, a series of cameras use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to determine which items were taken. After the doors are closed, the customer is given the option of receiving a text message with a receipt and the chosen debit or credit card will be charged the proper amount within minutes.
Do customers need to scan products in order to shop with CV Express™ ?
No, the customer does not scan any product on CV Express™. Products taken are recognised by the computer vision technology employed.
How does the machine know what was selected?
The CV Express™ device uses a series of five cameras and AI machine learning to determine what items were taken by the customer.
What type of locations benefit from a CV Express™?
High-traffic, semi-public areas are often underserved by unattended retail. With the security of CV Express, operators can tap into these spaces, including gyms, hospitals, hotels, airports, and university campuses. They also make a great replacement for vending machines in high-value locations, allowing operators to profit more from high-margin items.
What types of products can be sold with this technology?
Virtually anything that can be sold in a micro market can be sold with CV Express. The items that are best recognised by the AI recognition software are prepackaged foods, such as those found in vending machines and micro markets. These items provide the best experience for consumers.
How much product can the CV Express™ hold?
Depending on the cooler employed, but a good rule of thumb is 250-300 600ml drinks. Products can be of all shapes and sizes, with a typical recommendation being that in order for the computer vision to accurately record items taken, the items should be at least 10 cm wide and tall.
What does the operator use to manage CV Express™ ?
The management tools for this device are:
- 365Ops app - Back-office operational insights
- ADM – settings, inventory management, planogram and pictures (Stockwell section of ADM)
Can an operator operate CV Express™ using a VMS system?
Yes, with NAMA MM VDI integrations, just like any other 365 solution.
What is a Pre-Auth?
A Pre-Auth (short for pre-authorisation) is an initial transaction used to limit access to products to only those that have a verifiable payment method available, with available funds. 365 uses a pre-auth transaction with its controlled-access products like CV Express.
Why is a Pre-Auth important?
A pre-auth protects the operator by verifying that the card presented is valid and by limiting the financial exposure they have when deploying an unattended, controlled-access retail solution where a customer takes product that is billed a few minutes later.
If the customer’s card is not valid, this pre-auth will fail and the door does not unlock. If the customer’s card does not have enough funds available to cover the pre-auth amount, the door will also not unlock. It is the safety precaution used to limit risk.
If the final purchase amount exceeds the amount pre-authorised for transaction, 365 will attempt an incremental authorisation for the additional amount, using the card presented by the consumer when unlocking.
When will the pre-auth come off the customer's statement?
Similar to the above, the pre-auth may take some time to come off the statement, as the banking institution is responsible for the removal once the final charge is sent.
When will the final charge appear on the customer's statement?
The final charge is sent immediately upon settlement of the shopping cart to the bank. However, it may not show immediately, as this is dependent on how quickly their bank processes the information.
CV Express™ is not just a retail solution; it’s a tool for business growth and increased customer satisfaction. To unlock these exciting possibilities or dive deeper into what CV Express™ can offer your business, reach out to our team with the form below. Together, we can redefine retail experiences and elevate your business to new heights.