Aldi is using a London concept store to pilot new checkout-free technology that will allow customers to pay for their shopping and leave without visiting a till.
Instead, they will scan a smartphone app to enter the store before selecting their shopping items. Shortly after their visit, they will get an email receipt and be charged automatically using their chosen payment method.
The supermarket said staff are currently testing the initiative and further trials will be carried out by members of the public.
Giles Hurley, chief executive of Aldi UK and Ireland, said: “We are always looking to redefine what it means to be a discount retailer, and the technology involved in this trial will give us a wealth of learnings.
“We are really excited to be testing this concept that will enable customers to pick from our range of quality products, all available at unbeatable prices, then leave the store without having to pay at a till.”
Aldi said the first concept store will employ approximately the same number of staff as a typical Aldi Local.
