The CIBUS Hungaricus Foundation uniquely combines the development of local food systems with education and cutting-edge technology. Its mission is to shorten and make more transparent the connection between Hungarian producers and consumers, while simultaneously increasing the efficiency and sustainability of the food supply chain. One of the most visible and innovative manifestations of this mission is the automated food store installed on the Buda campus of the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), together with a container functioning as a picking and collection point.
The automated food store is a staff-free retail unit operating 24/7, offering primarily products from Hungarian, local and regional producers. Customers place their orders via a digital interface using a mobile application, after which the system automatically picks the products and makes them available for collection at the designated pick-up point. This solution is not only convenient and fast, but also fully traceable and data-driven, elevating access to local food products to a new level.
The picking container operating on MATE Buda campus serves simultaneously as a logistics hub, an educational demonstration facility and a living laboratory. It is the site where products are received, sorted, picked and handed over, while university students and researchers can observe and study the real-life operation of short food supply chains (AFNs), digitalised warehouse logistics and automated retail solutions. The system provides an excellent example of how education, innovation and market practice can be integrated into a single, functioning model.
Through this project, the CIBUS Hungaricus Foundation demonstrates that local food networks are not solutions of the past, but of the future: they are scalable, technologically advanced and economically viable. The automated store and the picking and collection point represent an AFN Best Practice that simultaneously supports market access for producers, convenience for consumers and the development of sustainable food systems.
SUCCESS FACTORS
Innovative logistics and retail solution:
The combination of the automated food store and the picking and collection point provides a new interpretation of short food supply chains. Digitalised order management, automated picking, and 24/7 availability significantly reduce operational costs while increasing the flexibility and reliability of the system.
University integration and knowledge transfer:
The cooperation with the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) enables the system to function not only as a sales channel, but also as an educational and research platform. In the long term, this ensures the continuous renewal of innovation and provides hands-on training opportunities for young professionals.
Product range based on local producers:
CIBUS consciously prioritises Hungarian and local products, thereby strengthening the regional economy, reducing transport distances and increasing consumer trust in the origin of food products.
Digitalisation and transparency:
The entire process – from ordering to collection – is digitally traceable, which enhances transparency along the food supply chain and enables efficient data collection for improved inventory management and a better understanding of consumer demand.
Scalability and adaptability:
The container-based, modular solution can be easily deployed on other university campuses, in rural areas or even in smaller settlements. This allows the model to contribute more broadly to the development of alternative food networks.