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For merchant ships next? Carrefour launches sail thru supermarket

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Carrefour has launched what it says is the world’s first sail thru supermarket in Dubai.

The supermarket chain is to serve yacht passengers, jet-skiers and beach goers from an “aqua pod” anchored offshore with 300 items including hot and cold snacks, beverages, fresh and dried foods, and selected non-food and personal care products.

The sail thru pod will allow passengers on small craft and jet skis to simply sail-up to a counter window and order, pay for and receive goods – much like a drive-in on land.

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Beachgoers on Kite Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach and Al Sufouh Beach and passengers on larger sailing vessels order by dialling 056 400 3659 or via the ‘Aqua Pod’ app with goods delivered by skiff within a target delivery time.

The Aqua Pod was concept designed and created by Aquatic Architects Design Studio (AADS) in Dubai and powered by rechargeable batteries.

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Miguel Povedano, coo and head of operational excellence of Carrefour UAE at Majid Al Futtaim Retail said: “With Dubai’s stunning coastline being enjoyed by millions of people each year, it is a natural next step to cater to our customers with relevant products in a locale where they are not currently being served.

“It’s exciting to know that we can reach our customers anywhere whether it be land or sea, and we can’t wait to delight them with this world-first service.”

As times change in the world retail and ship procurement could we yet see Carrefour offering out at sea services to seafarers on merchant vessels?

TAGS: Regions