Coles is the first supermarket in Australia to use AI-powered smart trolleys in stores, and the upgrade promises shoppers a “new level of convenience”.
The new carts use advanced technology, sensors and built-in scales to scan food directly into shopping bags.
Shoppers will also be able to weigh fresh produce and streamline the checkout process by paying in the cart.
Each unit will have a digital screen to display the store’s special offers and a map with the location of the produce aisles.
Coles says the new technology will help customers stay within their budget while tallying their purchases on the go.
Shoppers can also use their Coles or Flybuys cards to collect points.
Stores where AI carts are available will have a special ‘smart cart’ express lane at checkout.
The new trolleys will be trialled at Coles Richmond Traders in Melbourne from January 2025, but there are already some units available in stores for shoppers to familiarize themselves with.
Coles is Australia’s first supermarket to use AI-powered smart trolleys in stores
The new carts use advanced technology, sensors and built-in scales to scan food directly into shopping bags.
Smart carts encourage minimal interaction with staff, as you don’t need a worker to check your bags or scan your card if you change your mind.
If you want to withdraw an item you will simply have to remove it from the cart before paying and it will disappear from your invoice.
It also offers shoppers the benefits of shopping online in person.
The carts were created in collaboration with the American delivery company Instacart.
Instacart’s director of connected stores, David McIntosh, said: “Given cost-of-living pressures, we’ve found that customers especially love the way the digital display in the cart helps them see their running total. and manage your budget in real time.
“They also enjoy discovering more discounts and money off the total by spinning the digital wheel.”