TAMPERE, FINLAND — In Finland, there are roughly more than 800,000 dogs, but some are more selective than others. Now, to the delight of our furry friends, dog food brand Champion of Hau-Hau has pioneered a vending machine that allows dogs to taste dog food before buying. The innovative vending machine uses AI-powered facial recognition software and disinfectant blue light technology.
The Dog Vending Machine, made to resemble a cartoonish doghouse, brings joy to dogs and owners alike. However, its main purpose is to act as a pilot project for Hau-Hau Champion’s quest to reduce dog food waste. If the purchased food does not please your dog at home, it often means that almost the entire bag of dog food is wasted.
The vending machine is apparently the first of its kind in the world. Using state-of-the-art technology, it serves food only for dogs and ensures that they eat in hygienic conditions. The idea came from the creative agency TBWA\Helsinki and developed and developed into a working prototype their brand experience and innovation skills TBWA\NEXT.
A fun, safe, and rewarding change for dogs and owners
The working mechanism of the vending machine is based on AI-powered video recognition software: it recognizes the dog approaching it and drops the kibbles into the bowl. When the machine sees the dog leave, it automatically disinfects the bowl with UV light and is now ready to serve its next “client.”
“Wherever the vending machine is used, it seems to be a very welcome and pleasant surprise for both dogs and owners. Above all, we hope that giving dogs the opportunity to taste food will help reducing food waste in the future,” said Timo Pärssinen, CEO of Prima Pet Premium Oythe company behind the Hau-Hau Champion brand.
“Facial recognition using artificial intelligence ensures that the vending machine gives kibbles only to dogs, not, for example, to cats or children playing near the machine,” Juhana Hokkanen, Head of Experiential Creative at TBWA\Helsinki added.
“Another important feature of the vending machine is its safety for dogs. UV disinfection ensures constant air and surface purity. We use a new type of UV light to safely eliminate bacteria and viruses, which making the disinfection process faster and more efficient,” Juhanna continued.
A pilot project for Europe’s largest pet food producer
VAFO group, a leading European premium pet food producer, owns Hau-Hau Champion. As a member of the board of directors at VAFO, Timo said that the innovative vending machine is an inspiring project for the entire group.
”The welfare of the dogs comes first for us. This means innovative hygiene practices and top-of-the-line food that is safe and delicious for dogs. We have done a fantastic pilot project, and we hope that in the future, we will see the vending machine being used in Finland and other parts of Europe,” concluded Timo.
