Recently, the first smart cabinet under the union station initiative was installed in Nanniwan Road Community, Xiangyang Road Street, Nankai District, providing convenient and efficient 24/7 "scan-to-use" services for numerous outdoor workers in the area.
Located in the bustling Xiyuehui commercial area, Nanniwan Road Community is surrounded by dense shops and heavy traffic, with a constant flow of delivery riders, couriers, and other outdoor workers. Their most common challenges include accessing drinking water, meals, and emergency supplies promptly. Although the community has a union station, most facilities are stored indoors, making it difficult to meet the flexible and immediate needs of outdoor workers.
After multiple surveys and discussions, the Xiangyang Road Street Trade Union and Nanniwan Road Community Union, guided by the Nankai District Trade Union, introduced the "smart cabinet" as an innovative service model. On-site observations show that the smart cabinet is divided into six compartments, each equipped with practical supplies such as a microwave, bottled water, charging sockets, raincoats, emergency medicine, and a bicycle pump. Outdoor workers can simply scan the QR code with their smartphones to access free services like heating meals, charging devices, and drinking water, easily addressing their daily work needs.
"This smart cabinet is incredibly convenient. After delivering lunch, I can quickly heat my meal, and if my phone runs out of battery, I can charge it—all for free by scanning the code," said Mr. Zhang, a delivery rider, as he scanned the QR code and selected the heating function. The compartment door opened, allowing him to place his glass lunch box inside the microwave. "Bringing my own food and being able to heat it anytime is very practical for us," he added. Another courier, Mr. Li, who frequently works in the area, also praised the new smart cabinet: "A few days ago, when it suddenly rained, I could get a free raincoat here, and water is always available."
A staff member from the Xiangyang Road Street Trade Union explained that placing the smart cabinet outside the shopping mall enhances the flexibility and coverage of the union station. The community replenishes supplies every one or two days, and during colder weather, heating items will be added, offering tangible daily care for outdoor workers.