Is this the future of shopping? Coles rolls out new technology for shoppers
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In a world where technology is constantly reshaping our daily lives, it eventually bleeds into mundane tasks like shopping.
One supermarket took a bold step into the future of grocery shopping thanks to one technological innovation.
This move could revolutionise the way Australians shop, combining convenience with innovative budgeting tools.
This is the promise of Coles' new trolleys powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
In an announcement, the AI-equipped trolleys are scheduled to debut in Coles' Richmond Traders store by January 2025.
These trolleys may look like the standard ones used by shoppers, but they're anything but ordinary.
The child seats have been replaced by an interactive screen that serves as a shopper's assistant.
The screen should also display store information, such as aisle numbers and in-store specials.
A built-in sensor would scan each product placed on the trolley.
It could also tally the total cost in real time, allowing shoppers to manage their budgets as they go.
The trolleys would also be equipped with a built-in scale—ideal for weighing fresh produce and meats.
For shoppers with the Coles App on their phones or Flybuys members, the trolleys offer a bonus.
Shoppers can play Spin the Wheel on the screen for exclusive savings on their purchases of $50 or more.
Lastly, there's no need to queue once shoppers are ready to check out.
The trolley includes a payment terminal, letting shoppers pay on their own on the spot.
Coles' Chief Digital Officer Ben Hassing explained that the smart trolleys should help customers 'save time, manage their budget and checkout faster or at their own pace'.
David McIntosh, Instacart's Chief Connected Stores Officer, echoed this sentiment.
'With cost-of-living pressures top of mind, we've found customers especially love the way the digital screen on the trolley helps them to see their running total and manage their budget in real time,' Mr McIntosh added.
This trial could be a significant leap forward in the integration of AI technology into everyday activities.
This could mean less time spent in stores, more control over spending, and a more enjoyable shopping experience overall.
How do you feel about Coles' introduction of AI into your shopping routine? Are you excited about it, or do you have any reservations? Share your opinions with us in the comments section below!
One supermarket took a bold step into the future of grocery shopping thanks to one technological innovation.
This move could revolutionise the way Australians shop, combining convenience with innovative budgeting tools.
This is the promise of Coles' new trolleys powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
In an announcement, the AI-equipped trolleys are scheduled to debut in Coles' Richmond Traders store by January 2025.
These trolleys may look like the standard ones used by shoppers, but they're anything but ordinary.
The AI-powered shopping trolleys will be trialled at a Coles store in Melbourne early next year. Image Credit: NewsWire
The child seats have been replaced by an interactive screen that serves as a shopper's assistant.
The screen should also display store information, such as aisle numbers and in-store specials.
A built-in sensor would scan each product placed on the trolley.
It could also tally the total cost in real time, allowing shoppers to manage their budgets as they go.
The trolleys would also be equipped with a built-in scale—ideal for weighing fresh produce and meats.
For shoppers with the Coles App on their phones or Flybuys members, the trolleys offer a bonus.
Shoppers can play Spin the Wheel on the screen for exclusive savings on their purchases of $50 or more.
Lastly, there's no need to queue once shoppers are ready to check out.
The trolley includes a payment terminal, letting shoppers pay on their own on the spot.
Coles' Chief Digital Officer Ben Hassing explained that the smart trolleys should help customers 'save time, manage their budget and checkout faster or at their own pace'.
David McIntosh, Instacart's Chief Connected Stores Officer, echoed this sentiment.
'With cost-of-living pressures top of mind, we've found customers especially love the way the digital screen on the trolley helps them to see their running total and manage their budget in real time,' Mr McIntosh added.
This trial could be a significant leap forward in the integration of AI technology into everyday activities.
This could mean less time spent in stores, more control over spending, and a more enjoyable shopping experience overall.
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