The state of Pennsylvania has introduced America's first-ever wine vending machine as part of a supermarket trial.
The state of Pennsylvania has introduced America's first-ever wine vending machine as part of a supermarket trial.
Customers just have to swipe their driver's licence, look into the camera and blow into a breathalyser attached to the machine to purchase bottles of wine.
If the machines prove successful inside two supermarkets, the state Liquor Control Board says it could place the high-tech gadgets in up to 100 more.
Strict licensing laws in Pennsylvania mean individuals can only buy wine and liquor for home consumption at state-owned stores staffed by public employees.
Several attempts to reform the laws have been blocked by special interest groups intent on maintaining profits from the alcohol trade.
The vending machines are being provided by Simple Brands, based inu00a0 Pennsylvania, for free in exchange for being able to sell advertising on attached flat-screen monitors.
20 secs only
Customers choose their bottle of wine on a touch-screen display, swipe their ID, blow into an alcohol sensor and look into a surveillance camera.
The whole process takes around 20 seconds and a fee of $1 (Rs 45) could be added after the trial period.
A state employee in Harrisburg remotely approves the sale after verifying the buyer matches the photo ID.
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Pennsylvania liquor board chairman Patrick Stapleton said the kiosks gave 'an added level of convenience in today's busy society'.
Simple Brands president Jim Lesser said the vending machine was not aimed at wine connoisseurs.
"They were developed for the average consumer who wants a nice bottle of wine with their steak and seafood," he added.
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