Migros Opens First 24-Hour Store in Herisau, Tests Hybrid Model

Migros opened its first hybrid 24-hour store in Herisau AR on June 4, 2026, staffed during the day and fully automated at night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. This new model differs from the retailer’s previous unmanned “Teo” stores, which lost half a billion francs for the Zurich cooperative. The move signals Migros is refining its automation strategy after competitors also struggled with fully autonomous stores.

Hybrid Model Replaces Full Automation

Migros switched a staffed store in Herisau AR to operate without employees during evening and overnight hours. The store remains open 24 hours but only has staff present during daytime. This hybrid approach differs from the company’s “Teo” unmanned stores, which operated completely without employees. The shift reflects lessons learned from past automation attempts.

Past Unmanned Stores Failed to Profit

Migros Cooperative Zurich closed two 24-hour unmanned stores in Kloten and Dietlikon in 2024 due to low profitability. The “Teo” concept resulted in losses of half a billion francs for the cooperative. However, Migros Eastern Switzerland has had better success, with nine “Teo” locations operating 24 hours without staff. Five are in eastern Zurich, two in Thurgau, and two in St. Gallen.

Competitors Also Abandoned Automation

Valora Group closed its autonomous “Avec Box” stores in summer 2023 after demand proved too low. Spar ended its “Spar Go 24” walk-in vending machines at the end of 2024. One machine operated prominently in the car park next to Zurich’s main train station. Theft and property damage contributed to the decision to shut down the experiment.

Migros Tests New Retail Strategy

The Herisau store represents Migros’ attempt to balance automation with customer service. By keeping staff during peak shopping hours and automating during low-traffic periods, the retailer aims to reduce costs while maintaining profitability. Migros has tested many retail concepts over decades, from mobile sales stands to self-service trolleys and supermarkets.

Final Thoughts

Migros’ hybrid 24-hour store in Herisau tests a middle ground between full automation and traditional staffing. Early results from Eastern Switzerland’s nine successful \”Teo\” locations suggest the retailer may finally have found a profitable automation model.

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