Selecta presents first crypto-compatible Smart Fridges at Solana Breakpoint 2023

Amsterdam, 31. October 2023, Selecta, the European leader in FoodTech, introduces the first food vending machines that enable payments with crypto currencies, through an integration with Solana Pay. This functionality and flexibility provides even more convenience and freedom of choice in terms of payment options. The Smart Fridges are being presented for the first time during Solana Breakpoint, taking place this year from Oct. 30 to Nov. 3 at the Taets Art & Event Park in Zaandam. The event brings together the latest developments in food technology and payment solutions in the industry.

Solana Breakpoint is a large-scale gathering of blockchain enthusiasts and tech enthusiasts, focusing on the latest developments for these payment systems. As part of this collaboration, Selecta has integrated an innovative payment solution into its Smart Fridges, allowing visitors to pay with cryptocurrencies, specifically Solana Pay, a decentralized, open-source, peer-to-peer payments protocol built on Solana by Solana Labs, the stablecoin USDC and Venta, which integrates the ability to send Solana Pay transactions just by tapping a near-field communication (NFC) wristband. During the event, visitors can use sixteen Smart Fridges in the Taets Art & Event Park, enjoying a variety of fresh food and beverages.

User-friendly experience
The collaboration between Selecta, Solana Pay and Venta is not only a showcase of technological innovation, but also an expression of a shared vision for the future of payments and food technology. As a FoodTech leader, Selecta is taking an important step to enrich classic payment methods with a modern, user-friendly experience for consumers. “Our aim is to provide the next level of consumer-experience”, Roland Ludwig, CTO/COO of Selecta, says. “Enriching the whole client experience with modern, blockchain-based payment options is clearly fostering our leadership in FoodTech Operations”. The introduction of cryptocurrency payment options at this event is a first, and it offers a new dimension to the way consumers make their purchases. Moreover, it underscores Selecta's commitment to continuing to innovate and meet the changing needs of consumers.

Focus on creative developers
Solana Breakpoint is the meeting place for like-minded web developers who want to improve blockchain technology and deploy it in new domains. The event also provides a platform for entrepreneurs to present innovative ideas and raise funds. Christian Schmitz, CEO of Selecta Group: "We always want to provide the best service. Supporting new ideas and technology is indispensable to make that possible. That is why we are proud to support Solana Breakpoint and incorporate blockchain technology into our Smart Fridges. Beyond the payment aspect, this multi-prong integration also allows for the transmission of digital assets during the transaction, which enables vendors to engage beyond just the physical transaction."

Innovation & Eco-conscious approach
The introduction of cryptocurrency payments reflects Selecta's commitment to providing modern and user-friendly solutions. “We are delighted to have this strong partnership with Solana, building on the clear advantages like speed of transaction processing, transparency and smart contracts, offered via the Solana Web3 and blockchain capabilities”, Roland adds. Moreover, Selecta is focused on sustainability and reuses technology after the event. This reflects their commitment to an environmentally conscious approach in all their efforts.

To pay with crypto at a Smart Fridge, consumers can use a device that works via NFC, such as a smartphone or smartwatch. Anyone who does not have that, can use a smartphone app that is compatible with a crypto wallet. In addition, during the event Selecta will hand out Solana Pay wristbands that can be used to pay.