Automation is definitely the way to go in future once the infrastructure is ready. Pioneering new ideas requires time, $$$ and talented people. The cost of implementing+maintaining equipment & technology is way more than hiring a cashier.

Do consider if you have enough budget when making a decision to experiment with such business model.

• Unmanned store does not go inline with China’s consumer shopping habits and lack of customer experience. 
• Taiwan 7-11 halted due to lack of human touch & customer experience.
• Japan uses technology to increase cashier’s efficiency + technical support right beside the store.
• Singapore redesigns the vending machine concept.

What idea do you have in mind? ?

Reference article
【無人成本反更高】燒光 181 億台幣後，中國「無人商店」只能走向泡沫化？