Germany-based discount retailer Aldi is trialling a checkout-free concept store in London, UK.
The technology allows customers to scan a smartphone app when entering the store, collect their items and walk out without paying at a checkout counter.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Customers will be charged automatically using their chosen payment method and receive an email receipt shortly after visiting.
Aldi colleagues are currently testing the store, with additional pilots due to be conducted by the public.
Aldi UK and Ireland CEO Giles Hurley 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.”
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataAldi said that its first checkout-free concept store will employ around the same number of associates as a typical Aldi Local store.
The announcement follows the launch of the retailer’s click-and-collect service last year.
The click-and-collect service allows customers to carry out a full weekly shop online before collecting their orders in-store.
It is currently available in more than 200 Aldi stores across the UK.
In June, Tesco announced plans to launch and open its first checkout-free store.
In the same month, Amazon also revealed plans to open a Fresh store featuring the retailer’s Just Walk Out checkout-free technology.
Last month, Aldi revealed plans to recruit more than 2,000 workers across the UK before the end of the year.
The retailer’s US branch also announced it was preparing to recruit more than 20,000 people at its stores and warehouses across the country.
