Aldi has opened its first Shop&Go concept store in Greenwich in the UK, allowing customers to shop without needing to scan products through a checkout.
To shop, customers just download the Aldi Shop&Go app, which allows them to enter the store, pick up their items, and simply walk out. Once the customer leaves, they will be automatically charged for their shopping via their selected payment method and a receipt will appear in the app.
The system, provided by technology provider AiFi, uses specially positioned cameras to detect which products customers have picked up, before charging them to their Aldi Shop&Go account when they leave the store.
When it comes to the purchase of alcohol or other age restricted products, customers will be able to use facial age estimation technology to authorise their purchase. This technology, provided by Yoti, enables customers to confirm their age within seconds via the Aldi Shop&Go app. Those who opt to not use the system will instead be age verified by a store colleague.
Giles Hurley, CEO, Aldi UK and Ireland, said he is looking forward to seeing how customers react to the Shop&Go trial.
“This store utilises the very latest in retail technology offering Aldi’s award-winning products and unbeatable prices to customers in a new and innovative way. The team are really excited about seeing customers come in and experience Aldi Shop&Go.”
Lewis Esparon, Store Manager, said it will be great to see how customers react to the new technology.
“For us, steps like this are always about improving the customer experience and the whole team are looking forward to being on-hand and ready to help to ensure that experience is as smooth as ever.”