Imagine walking into a store, picking up the products you need, and leaving. Last March I visited a supermarket in Düsseldorf. Well you might be wondering, what is so special about that? This was not an ordinary supermarket, it was a so-called “Pick and Go” supermarket. This supermarket was equipped with a system that relies on a network of cameras, weight sensors, and computer vision technology to track the products a customer selects. Cameras monitor movements, while smart shelves detect when items are removed or returned. The system links each product to the shopper’s account, creating a virtual basket automatically as you move through the store.
Artificial intelligence plays an important role in interpreting all the data. It identifies which items are being picked up, distinguishes between multiple shoppers in the same area, and ensures that products are correctly assigned to the right customer. When the customer leaves, the system calculates the total cost and charges the account automatically, eliminating the need for a traditional checkout.
In addition to convenience created for the customer, the system also provides the retailers with valuable insights about shopping patterns. With these insights and collected data, the retailers can optimize the store layout and manage the inventory more efficiently.
Some customers might have some concerns regarding this system. Privacy is a main concern, due to the collection of personal data about shopping behavior. In addition, implementing this technology demands significant investment in hardware, software, and maintenance.
I however enjoyed the experience of shopping in a store without any checkout lines. While the system did occasionally register items I hadn’t picked up, it was easy, quick and effortless. The overall experience made the visit worthwhile.
