Chonburi: A young woman in Ban Bueng has revolutionized the way organic vegetables are sold by introducing a self-service model that operates 24 hours a day, allowing customers to pick their own produce and pay by dropping coins into a designated machine.

According to Thai News Agency, this innovative concept, known as "Tee Chon Hydroponic Farm," is located on the roadside in front of Wat Ang Wien, Ban Bueng District, Chonburi Province. Ms. Ajaree Rungsawang, the 48-year-old owner, devised this unique approach after leaving her regular job to care for her children. With time on her hands, she began learning about hydroponic vegetable cultivation using styrofoam boxes, which proved to be an effective and economical method. As interest in her fresh vegetables grew, she expanded her operation to a small 50-square-meter farm and implemented the "coin-operated vegetable vending machine" concept.

The process is straightforward: customers harvest vegetables from the styrofoam boxes, bag them using materials provided by the farm, and deposit coins into a collection box. Alternatively, cashless payments can be made by scanning a QR code. This "Trust-Based Vegetable Farm" relies on customer honesty, with no CCTV or staff monitoring the 24/7 operation. Clear signage is available to guide customers on how to select, purchase, and pay for their vegetables, ensuring a pressure-free shopping experience. The farm successfully meets customer demand by producing 20 kg of vegetables daily.

Ms. Ann, a 50-year-old customer from Si Racha district, shared her family's satisfaction with the produce's taste, freshness, and safety, appreciating the convenience of 24-hour availability.