VICKI

About VICKI

VICKI is an automated retail solution developed by ViaTouch Media, a software technology company founded by Tom Murn in 2013. Murn, a former vending operator, established ViaTouch Media to integrate artificial intelligence and other modern technologies into the consumer shopping experience. The company, headquartered in San Diego, CA, focuses on disrupting the retail industry by enabling new revenue streams and reducing operational expenses for retailers through data analytics and advanced hardware.

The core of the business is the VICKI (ViaTouch Intellishelf Cognitive Kinetic Interactions) platform, an IoT self-checkout solution that serves as a modern replacement for traditional vending. The first VICKI machine was unveiled in November 2017 at The Freedom Tower in New York City. These smart stores are designed as 'stores within a store' and utilize a combination of AI, computer vision, machine learning, and patented Intelli-Shelf sensor technology to offer a frictionless, interactive, and secure retail experience. Customers can access the machine using a credit card or various biometric options like thumb or iris scans, examine products off the shelf, and are automatically charged for what they take. This system has demonstrated a significant reduction in product shrinkage.

VICKI machines are highly customizable and can be tailored with a retailer's branding. They feature interactive elements like a virtual assistant that can answer product questions, promotional media displays, and directed audio. The platform also provides retailers with a web-based dashboard for managing inventory, tracking sales analytics, and gaining customer insights. To enhance safety, especially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the machines can be equipped with touch-free access and a UV-C sanitizing light that cleans the products after each use. The business model involves both the direct sale of VICKI units to operators and partnership models where operators can service locations for a fee. VICKI has been deployed in various settings, including corporate offices, museums, healthcare facilities, and for selling specialized items like CBD products and potentially alcohol and cannabis where legal.