There’s a new shop in Hà Nội with no sales clerks and no name. Anyone can come in, choose a chocolate, ice cream or drink, among other items, and leave their payments in a box.

Most visitors to the shop on Liễu Giai Street adhere to the honour system. After two months of operation, the shop, which offers printed guides to customers, has yet to record a theft. A camera system monitors all activities. 

Owner Đào Khánh Hiệp, 33, says he has confidence in people’s kindness and honesty. His aim is to create a small community, especially among youth, of kind people and promote a culture of compassion and integrity.

Nguyễn Hoàng Long, a high school student from Hà Nội, says he hopes that more shops like it will open in the city.

Hiệp is going to do just that. He plans to open more self-service shops around the city, especially in the old quarter and residential areas.VNS