Fresh Opportunity: Scale-Based Smart Vending Expands Into Fruit and Vegetables

Reliable AI weight sensors enable new product categories for vending operators and supermarkets through Scallix Inc. and Shekel collaboration

Scallix Inc., in partnership with Shekel, has introduced the first scale-based smart vending solution capable of dispensing fresh fruit and vegetables. The system allows vending operators and supermarkets to broaden product offerings to include higher-value categories suitable for residential and mixed-use environments across North America. Unlike traditional or vision-based vending machines, the system relies on Shekel’s advanced AI weight-sensing technology rather than image recognition. This design removes the need for retraining or reprogramming when product packaging changes, improving operational efficiency for operators who regularly update assortments.

Expanding Product Potential for Operators

Vending and micromarket operators have typically been limited to packaged snacks and beverages. Scallix’s scale-based approach makes it possible to manage a wider range of products — from avocados and fresh fruit cups to seasonal or promotional items — without modifying software or visual databases.

By introducing fresh produce, operators may see up to a 200% increase in average transaction value compared to traditional beverage or snack vending, reflecting the difference between products such as a can of soda and an avocado for instance. The ability to handle perishable or variable-weight items also supports new forms of collaboration between supermarkets, OEMs, and property developers in residential settings.

“This capability introduces a new model for unattended smart vending,” said Avi Bokobza, Founder and President of Scallix Inc. in today’s press release. “For the first time, operators can adapt the contents of their machines based on the location. Until now, most machines were stocked mainly with bottles and chips because that’s what their systems could accommodate. With scale-based technology, operators can include a much broader range of items — from toys in entertainment venues to fruits and vegetables in residential buildings.”

Technology Designed for Flexibility and Efficiency

Scallix’s AI-enabled coolers measure and track inventory using Shekel’s precision scale sensors. The system identifies products by weight rather than appearance, removing the need for ongoing image collection or retraining. Key operational benefits include:

• Flexibility to restock items of different shapes, packaging, or brands
• Simplified product management during seasonal or promotional changes
• Reduced maintenance and configuration compared to vision-based systems
• Compatibility with existing vending and micro-market management software
• Full control over your planogram design, publishing, and optimization

Because scale data is accessible in real time, operators can instantly monitor their sales, stock levels, analyze performance, and adjust assortments based on demand patterns.

See it in action.

Industry Reactions

Industry professionals have recognized the introduction as a practical advancement in unattended retail technology.

“We’re seeing valuable collaborations that help our clients offer dependable, modern solutions in the foodservice and micromarket space,” said Abril Moreno, Executive Sales, Imbera US | Micromarket & Foodservice.

“An impressive use case and a strong example of Canadian innovation in smart vending,” added Eliran Vaknin, technology leader at Shekel Ltd.

About Scallix Inc.

Founded in 2023, Scallix Inc. develops smart retail and automation solutions for the North American market. The company’s mission is to support retailers and operators through technologies that improve efficiency and operational insight. Scallix provides automation systems for manufacturing, smart shopping carts, and scale-based smart coolers. The company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, with operations in Toronto and Atlanta, USA. Learn more at scallix.ai.