Iona University students return to campus from summer break as Amazon Just Walk Out tech powered store opens
An Amazon Just Walk Out technology powered checkout-free store has opened at Iona University in the US, just in time for the return of students to campus following the summer break.
In a LinkedIn post, Garett Buchholz, Account Executive at Gallery, which builds concession and retail experiences that aim to offer convenience, simplify transactions and blend into the environment. said: “Keeping the foot on the gas pedal. Proud to announce the launch of another Amazon JWO store at Iona University.”
He added: “Big thanks to Andrew Goodman (Project Manager at Gallery), Peter L. Bonacci (Regional Vice President at Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services), Francis Spiegel (Senior Programme Manager at Amazon Web Services), and everyone else who helped bring this project to life right before the school year kicked off.”
“Students are now returning to campus with a renovated building - and inside it, a brand new JWO store designed to maximise throughput and create a smoother, more convenient experience.”
Iona University is a private Catholic university with a main campus in New Rochelle, New York, United States. It was founded in 1940 by the Congregation of Christian Brothers and occupies a campus of 45 acres in New Rochelle and a campus of 28 acres in Bronxville, New York.
Forever in our Iona era ✨ #TS12 pic.twitter.com/tDlVOn7ney
— Iona University (@ionauniversity) August 16, 2025
SHOP AND GO
Using AI, sensors, computer vision, and RFID, Just Walk Out tracks item selection and automates payment when shoppers exit the store.
Computer vision powered by AI, cameras, and sensor fusion technology enables product tracking and automated checkout. Just Walk Out detects when customers take or return items, maintaining a virtual cart and automating payment upon exit.
RFID lanes leverage radio-frequency identification technology to enable product identification, inventory tracking, and automated checkout for tagged retail merchandise, like clothing and promotional items.
The ultimate aim is to power faster transactions, labour optimisation, and better customer experiences in compact retail spaces such as college campuses, corporate campus grab and go markets and unattended airport walk through markets.
2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS
Checkout free stores will be a key focus area at our sister title RTIH’s 2025 Innovation Awards.
The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”
He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”
“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”
Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering.
For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.
