Self-service retail stations pop up in Wuxi

Users can pay for snacks and drinks by scanning the QR code attached to the self-service shelf or chiller cabinet. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The maker space's operation specialist, Mrs. Xia said she had enjoyed using the retail stall.

"I used to have to walk a long way to get refreshments, but now I don't even have to leave the floor to fill my belly," she said.

Others, however, are more cautious about the stall's benefits.

One young man thought twice about his purchase after scanning the QR code, muttering: "I'm not hungry right now so I won't buy them. They're more expensive than in the supermarket."

Another potential problem with the system is the ease with which people could steal items from the shelves. But Mrs Xia did not believe this would be a problem in her office.

"The self-service retail stations are arranged inside the office building, which isn't easily accessible to people outside. And all my colleagues are well-mannered, they will not take things without paying," she insisted.

According to Xing Bian Li, the company has developed a storage and logistics system to ensure the shelves are restocked every day.

The company will also use data provided by the QR code to analyze the consumption habits of customers at each retail stall and make sure that popular items do not run out.

According to Xing Bian Li's statistics, people aged between 20 and 35 account for 85 percent of its users. Most young people prefer to pay for things using mobile payment, which is perceived as being faster, easier and cooler than using cash.