Aldi opens first checkout-free store using 'age estimation technology'

Budget supermarket Aldi have officially opened their first checkout-free store after a successful trial by its staff members.

The shop, which is located in Greenwich, opened at 7am this morning (January 18) and means that customers don't have to scan a single item.

Instead, shoppers download the Aldi Shop&Go app, which will allow them to enter the store, pick up their items, and then simply walk out when they have completed their shop.

Once a customer leaves the shop, they will then be automatically charged for their shopping via their selected payment method and a receipt will appear in the app, reports WalesOnline.

The payment system is provided by leading technology provider AiFi which uses specially positioned cameras to detect which products customers have picked up.

Customers wishing to purchase age restricted item such as alcohol and other Challenge 25 products will be ID'd via facial age estimation technology to authorise their purchase.

This technology, provided by Yoti, enables customers to confirm their identity 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.

The shop opened its doors to the public on January 18. (Aldi)

Giles Hurley, CEO of Aldi UK and Ireland, said: "Today is the culmination of months of work, not least from the team here in Greenwich and I’m looking forward to seeing how customers react to our 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, Aldi Store Manager, added: "I cannot wait to show customers our new Aldi Shop&Go store. We have been working towards this day for several months now so it will be great to see how our 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."