Waitrose is currently testing innovative AI-powered shopping carts that automatically track items as customers place them in the cart.
This new technology requires shoppers to attach a device to a regular Waitrose trolley’s handlebars, equipped with a scanner and cameras to monitor the items added to the cart. Before placing an item in the trolley, customers must first scan it, allowing the cart to identify and keep track of the shopping list. Additionally, a small screen displays the list of items and the total cost of the shopping trip.
Upon completion of shopping, customers can exit the store without visiting a traditional checkout as they will be automatically charged for their purchases. Payment details need to be added before shopping, and loose items must be weighed as usual.
These advanced trolleys, utilizing technology from the software company Shopic, are currently being tested at a Waitrose store in Bracknell, Berkshire, with potential expansion to other locations in the future.
Waitrose mentioned that the smart trolley operates similarly to its scan, pay, go handsets, aiming to provide customers with a more seamless payment experience while still offering conventional checkout options for those who prefer interaction with store staff.
In a statement online, Shopic highlighted the integration of their AI and vision technology into Dimar, with Retex playing a vital role, marking a significant step towards introducing smart shopping carts in Italian supermarkets. They emphasized how computer vision not only enhances convenience for shoppers but also empowers retailers to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and enhance customer engagement.
Amazon pioneered checkout-free shopping through its Amazon Fresh outlets, using cameras and sensors to monitor customer selections. In a separate development, Lidl is experimenting with cameras at self-checkouts to deter shoplifting by recording when items are not scanned. Similarly, Home Bargains has installed cameras to identify unscanned items at self-service tills, collaborating with tech firms SAI and Everseen to improve theft prevention measures.
Paul Rowland, Home Bargains’ operations director, shared with The Grocer that technology has proven more effective than security guards in tackling theft incidents.
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