Carrefour launches world’s first sail thru supermarket, serving yacht passengers, jet-skiers and beach-goers in Dubai
‘Carrefour Bites and More by the Shore’ will serve sea and shore-based customers six days a week from a custom-built ‘Aqua Pod’ which will be anchored off Jumeirah Public Beach and Al Sufouh Beach
‘Sail-thru’ concept allows yacht passengers and jet skiers to take advantage of an at-sea product range of 300 items which includes hot and cold snacks, beverages, fresh and dried foods, and selected non-food and personal care products.
‘Carrefour Bites and More by the Shore’ is the latest customer-focused innovation from Majid Al Futtaim, which is pursuing a ‘customer first’ strategy.
Operational six days a week from 10am to 6pm (subject to weather conditions), the custom-built Aqua Pod will serve customers on yachts, jet-skis and on three selected beaches in Dubai: Kite Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach and Al Sufouh Beach.
With over 300 products onboard ranging from hot and cold snacks, ice cream, fresh food and beverages to selected non-food items like sunscreen and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals, each product has been carefully selected to match customer needs while at sea and on-shore.
Placing an order is simple. Jet skiers and passengers in small sailing crafts can sail up to the Aqua Pod and order at the window counter, pay and receive their packed items. Customers on larger sailing vessels in the area or on the selected beaches can phone through their order by dialling 056 400 3659 or via the ‘Aqua Pod’ app (Android and iOS compatible) and a skiff will deliver their order within a 45-minute target delivery time.
The Aqua Pod concept was designed and created by Aquatic Architects Design Studio (AADS), in Dubai, and has been built and designed with an eco-friendly focus.
It is powered by rechargeable batteries, which will allow it to cruise out to sea and back. Carrefour Bites and More by the Shore will also contribute to cleaner waters around Dubai via its ‘seabin’ which is attached to the exterior of the Aqua Pod and vacuums in any floating debris into its holding tank. The refuse is then safely disposed of once docked on shore. Lastly, the Aqua Pod can convert grid water in its holding tank to potable water using a built-in purifier, eliminating the need for plastic bottles on board.
In keeping with Majid Al Futtaim’s wider commitment to sustainability and Net Positivity, Carrefour Bites and More by the Shore will only provide customers with biodegradable paper straws and bags and encourage customers to dispose any waste from their purchases in a responsible and environmentally friendly manner.