The battle for donations

How artificial intelligence is threatening social markets

At the Samariterbund social market in Meidling, for example, food is available at a fraction of the supermarket price.

(Bild: Zwefo, Krone KREATIV)

Fewer and fewer Viennese can afford food at regular prices. That's when social markets step in. But when it comes to donations, they are competing with artificial intelligence and apps. 

The queue in front of the market begins to form in the early hours of the morning. A little girl in a red coat clings to her mother's hand, her face looking exhausted despite her smile. Then the doors open. A new day has dawned at the social market and with it the hope of getting hold of much sought-after fruit, vegetables, dairy products and durable goods such as rice or pasta at a reasonable price.