Nourish + Bloom Market, an innovative grocery store located in Atlanta, is making headlines as the first 24-hour AI-powered, frictionless grocery store in the United States.
The store is a solution designed to meet the needs of customers seeking healthy meals and daily essentials in a contactless and staff-free setting.
Co-Founders Jamie and Jilea Hemmings, a married couple with two decades of partnership, aim to redefine the grocery shopping experience.
According to Jilea, shoppers can expect to step into the future when they enter the Nourish + Bloom store.
“When you come in our store, there’s no cashiers, no staff. You’re literally able to scan in, grab what you want, and get back to your day,” she noted.
The focus on frictionless shopping technology is particularly significant as it expands access to customers utilizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, enhancing food security.
With an AI-based system in place, real-time inventory tracking, contactless entry, and seamless checkout via a mobile app are all part of the technology at Nourish + Bloom.
The innovative approach aims to maintain high security and service while operating with minimal staffing, addressing the growing demand for accessible grocery shopping.
In addition to the grocery store, Nourish + Bloom is also deploying autonomous smart fridges in various high-traffic areas such as corporate offices, hospitals, and stadiums, further expanding access to fresh food.
Recently, The Atlanta Voice had the opportunity to speak with the Hemmings about their journey, visions for the future, and the community impact of their business.
The idea for Nourish + Bloom arose from personal necessity, particularly during the challenging times of the pandemic.
“Jilea Hemmings explained that after moving to Atlanta and settling into a food desert amid the pandemic, they recognized the pressing issues surrounding food insecurity.
They understood that leveraging AI could revolutionize grocery shopping, making it accessible and convenient without the long wait times typical of traditional grocery stores.
As the Hemmings celebrate nearly four years in business, they reflect on the journey that brought their idea to life.
Jamie commented on the unexpected journey from a concept to a reality that resonates with the community.
They acknowledged the story of Nourish + Bloom becoming a beacon of hope for those facing food insecurity, providing essential access to fresh produce and healthier options.
Every customer experience at Nourish + Bloom begins with a unique feature—a $40 hold on debit or credit cards upon entry.
This process, explained Jilea, is in place to cover potential purchases.
As customers exit the store, the amount spent is deducted, and any excess holds are released.
This ensures that even without staff, security and transaction verification are prioritized.
The Hemmings draw inspiration from a lineage of entrepreneurs, with family members who have successfully built their businesses over decades.
Jilea highlighted the importance of perseverance and the strength gained from challenges encountered along the journey.
In terms of aspirations, Jamie sees a vibrant future for Nourish + Bloom, with plans to expand nationally.
The store’s pioneering status as the first black-owned AI grocery store has gained significant attention, motivating individuals across the country facing similar challenges in food access.
Franchising opportunities are on the horizon, with hopes to bring the Nourish + Bloom model to more communities in need.
The Hemmings expressed a desire for their business to ignite innovation and creativity among others.
As they become part of the new tech-driven workforce, they emphasize the importance of using technology to make a positive impact.
“Their vision for Nourish + Bloom is rooted in the support of family, friends, and the community that rallied behind them to make their dream a reality,” Jilea stated.
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Jamie offers vital advice: perseverance in the face of obstacles is essential.
“Many entrepreneurs emphasize the positive aspects, but the hard work and dedication required are often overlooked,” he warned.
As a husband-and-wife team, the Hemmings admit that launching and managing a business together is a continual commitment.
Their message to those passionate about entrepreneurship is clear: keep pushing through challenges and remain focused on your goals regardless of external distractions or delays.
If passion accompanies the idea, success will follow, they believe.
To learn more about Nourish + Bloom Market and their innovative approach to grocery shopping, visit their website at https://www.nourishandbloommarket.com.
image source from：theatlantavoice
