BGSU among the first universities in the nation to use Amazon Just Walk Out technology on campus

Innovative artificial intelligence technology eliminates checkout lines by allowing shoppers to purchase items without stopping at a register

Embracing technologies that enhance the learning community experience, Bowling Green State University is one of the first universities in the nation to use Amazon's Just Walk Out technology on its campus.

Launched on Jan. 8 in the new Market at Carillon Place, Just Walk Out technology eliminates checkout lines by allowing shoppers to remove items from a shelf and exit a store without stopping at a register.

The cutting-edge technology works by tracking purchases through the presentation of a credit card or the Transact Mobile Ordering app upon entry to the Market at Carillon Place. Using artificial intelligence, the technology detects what shoppers take from or return to the shelves and creates a virtual shopping session. When guests are done shopping, they can leave the store without having to wait and their choice of payment is charged for the items they took.

"At Bowling Green State University, we are committed to enhancing the learning community experience through innovation and cutting-edge technology,” said Jon Zachrich, director of marketing, communication and technology at BGSU Dining. "The Amazon Just Walk Out technology-powered store provides students, faculty and staff with a convenient and efficient shopping experience. We are excited to be at the forefront of this transformative retail technology."

Located near Centennial Hall, the Market at Carillon Place features food, drinks, snacks and other items commonly found in everyday convenience stores. The market also carries locally made and sourced products to support regional businesses.

The introduction of the Just Walk Out technology at the market highlights a collaboration among BGSU, Chartwell's Higher Education, Amazon and Transact Campus to further provide a convenient and efficient retail experience for those who learn, live and work on campus.

BGSU is the first university in Ohio to open a store powered by Just Walk Out technology with complete integration to Transact Campus technology.

"We are thrilled that BGSU has introduced Just Walk Out, a groundbreaking advancement in campus convenience," said Arun Ahuja, senior vice president and general manager of campus commerce at Transact Campus. "Students at BGSU can now enjoy a frictionless and time-saving journey through campus, further exemplifying our dedication to shaping the future of campus life."

In addition to creating an enhanced shopping experience for customers, the University's adoption of the technology bolsters student employment opportunities with offerings in customer service, retail technology and more.

As a leader in implementing innovative technologies on its campuses, BGSU was the first university in Ohio to launch an autonomous robot food delivery service as a convenience for the learning community. The service provided by Starship Technologies allows users to order food and drinks from various locations to be delivered on campus and in the community.