Aldi launched a brand new type of store on Tuesday with an experimental new checkout system.
The budget retailer unveiled its Aldi Shop&Go supermarket in London to the public today, after previously being trialled by staff members.
Shoppers visiting the store on Greenwich High Street will be able to grab the items they want and simply walk out without having to go through a checkout.
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The concept of the store is designed to make the process of shopping simpler for customers, who only need to download the Aldi Shop&Go App before heading into the shopfront.
Shoppers are observed by advanced cameras that can detect items that they have picked up — developed by leading technology company AiFi — and the products will be added to their Aldi Shop&Go account.
As reported by the Daily Record, they will then be charged automatically via their preferred payment method after walking out of the store with their groceries, without the need to go through a till.
Those buying alcohol, or any other product available only to people over a certain age, can get their age checked beforehand with the app's facial age estimation technology to authorise their purchase.
With technology provided by Yoti, customers are able to confirm their identity within seconds via the app, but shoppers who choose to opt out will still have their age checked by a store colleague.
News of the store comes after Amazon trialled their own version of a checkout free shop in London early last year.
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.”
Store Manager Lewis Esparon said: “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.”
