AI Vending Machine for Smarter Drinks in China
In China’s rapidly evolving beverage market, customers are seeking more than just convenience — they want personalization, creativity, and technology. That’s why one of the country’s leading beverage brands turned to WEIMI for a smarter way to sell. The result? Over 1,000 WEIMI AI Vending Fridges installed nationwide, transforming the way people experience cocktails, beer, vodka, and more.
This large-scale deployment not only introduced a new way to enjoy drinks but also proved how AI-powered vending technology can create a vibrant, profitable, and data-driven retail ecosystem.
A New Way to Enjoy Drinks
The client’s goal was to make bartending fun and accessible — anytime, anywhere. Instead of selling ready-to-drink bottles, they wanted to offer “DIY bartending packages” that include all the raw materials needed for customers to mix their own cocktails. From mixers and flavor syrups to spirits and garnishes, each package allows customers to create unique drinks that match their personal taste.
Traditional stores couldn’t efficiently handle such a concept — limited space, operating hours, and staffing needs all stood in the way. That’s where WEIMI’s AI vending technology changed the game.
Smart Retail for Smarter Drinks
WEIMI’s AI Vending Fridge uses advanced AI vision recognition to deliver a fast, seamless shopping experience. Customers simply tap to start, open the fridge, and begin selecting items. The dual wide-angle cameras record the process while the AI system automatically identifies each product and calculates the total price within seconds.
There’s no need for barcode scanning or manual checkout — once the door closes, the system automatically charges the customer through their chosen payment method. The entire process takes as little as 15 seconds and rarely exceeds three minutes, even for multi-item purchases.
This smooth, intuitive experience perfectly fits modern consumer habits, encouraging customers to explore multiple ingredients — and ultimately increasing average order value per transaction.
Technology That Drives Profitability
Behind every sale is WEIMI’s self-developed AI vision system, designed specifically for vending operations. Unlike generic image recognition software, WEIMI’s AI is optimized for product diversity and mixed-item shopping, ensuring accurate recognition in real-world conditions.
On the operator side, the benefits are even greater. The smart management platform provides real-time data on inventory, freshness, and sales performance across all machines. Automated reports simplify restocking schedules, while freshness tracking helps reduce waste and maintain quality. With centralized control, operators can manage hundreds of units efficiently, without the need for on-site staff.
The result: lower labor costs, higher operational efficiency, and 24/7 revenue generation.
Design That Sells
Each AI vending fridge is designed not only for performance but also for visual impact. The modern, colorful design — such as the cat-ear-shaped vending stations now seen in several Chinese cities — attracts attention and invites interaction. The large digital screen supports video advertisements and brand storytelling, turning every machine into both a sales point and a powerful marketing display.
By deploying over 1,000 machines, the client achieved a nationwide brand presence within months. The vending stations became popular photo spots and social media features, helping the brand reach younger audiences and build stronger recognition across multiple cities.
The Future of Unmanned Alcohol Retail
The success of this project highlights a new direction for beverage and alcohol retail in China — one that blends automation, personalization, and AI-driven insights. Customers get an engaging, customizable experience; operators enjoy stable profits with minimal costs; and brands gain valuable visibility through 24/7, data-rich retail channels.
For WEIMI, this large-scale rollout proves that AI vending technology isn’t just about convenience — it’s about empowering businesses to innovate faster, scale smarter, and connect deeper with consumers.
Empowering the Next Generation of Smart Retail
As WEIMI continues to develop advanced vending solutions, the possibilities for automated retail only keep expanding — from cocktails and coffee to snacks, cosmetics, and collectibles. Each project redefines how products are sold, experienced, and remembered.
With over 1,000 AI vending machines already in operation across China, our technology has proven that when innovation meets efficiency, the future of retail can be intelligent, profitable, and beautifully designed.