Wu-Mart named world’s smartest convenience store of 2026
Global award highlight AI-driven retail innovation across China, Singapore and the UK.
Wu-Mart’s Xueqing Road store in Beijing has been named the “Smartest Store in the World 2026,” announced at the NACS Convenience Summit Europe held in Warsaw. The recognition, organized by NACS and Global Convenience, evaluated entries based on innovation, technology integration and customer experience across the retail sector.
The competition attracted more than 55,000 visitors and thousands of votes worldwide. Singapore’s FairPrice Group secured second place with its Punggol Coast Mall location, while the UK’s Kavanagh Group ranked third with its Belsize Park store in London.
The winning Wu-Mart store reflects a growing shift toward AI-driven retail operations. Developed in partnership with Dmall, the concept integrates artificial intelligence across core store functions, including merchandising, supply chain optimization and real-time operational management. The system uses AI-based tools to automate decisions such as product assortment, replenishment and pricing, while monitoring store performance continuously.
This approach enables a transition from reactive to predictive store management, where digital systems can identify patterns, anticipate demand and execute actions with limited human intervention. The model also aims to improve efficiency while reducing waste and energy consumption.
Wu-Mart operates more than 1,500 stores across China and serves billions of customer visits annually, positioning it as one of the country’s largest retail groups. The recognition highlights how AI is reshaping convenience retail, with increasing focus on automation, data-driven decision-making and enhanced customer experience.
The awards underscore broader industry trends, as retailers adopt advanced technologies to redefine store operations and respond to evolving consumer expectations.
