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Waitrose Tests AI Smart Trolleys With On-Cart Payment in Bracknell

The Bracknell pilot tests Shopic devices that move scanning and payment onto the trolley.

Overview

  • Waitrose confirms a very small-scale trial at its Bracknell store using Shopic handlebar units that clip onto standard trolleys.
  • The devices pair barcode scanning with rear-facing cameras to verify items and display a real-time tally as products are added or removed.
  • Shoppers still weigh loose produce, select bakery items on the screen, and scan reduced yellow-sticker goods, with conventional checkouts remaining in place.
  • Waitrose is also trialling shelf inventory cameras and electronic shelf labels in the store to improve stock visibility and price compliance.
  • Shopic markets the system as a retail-media and data platform, and industry observers suggest it could aid loss prevention and operational insight.