Retailer Loblaws is launching ‘Shop and Scan’ today at select locations, which will let customers scan their items with an iPhone app to fast track the checkout process.
According to spokesperson Catherine Thomas, she told CBC News, “Customers can now scan, pay and be on their way,” adding “We’re excited that this is a platform we can further invest in.”
Customers will use the PC Express iOS app from the App Store and then connect to free store Wi-Fi. As they grab items off shelves, all they need to do is scan them with the app before putting them into their shopping basket. The self-managed scan and pay aims to alleviate pressure at checkouts, saving customers time.
Loblaws will have digital scales for customers to weigh produce. Once a customer finalizes their shopping, a barcode is created for the final bill, which can be paid at self-checkout, a dedicated fast lane ‘shop and scan’ kiosk or regular cashiers. A future feature will allow customers to pay in the company’s app and bypass checkouts altogether.
The limited test by Loblaws will start today, Thursday, November 22, at five grocery stores in the Greater Toronto Area, while three more stores are set to join the test in December.
Walmart has been testing a similar concept called Scan and Go, but recently ramped down the system, which apparently was not popular with shoppers.
Click here to download the PC Express iOS app and let us know if you’re going to give this a try today.
Update Nov. 22, 9:33AM: Loblaws sent iPhone in Canada the following statement regarding participating locations:
Starting today, we will pilot Shop and Scan technology at five Loblaws locations in the GTA –Queen & Portland, Leslie & Lakeshore, Forest Hill, Maple Leaf Gardens, and Glen Erin locations; three more Real Canadian Superstores (Milton, Oakville, and on Argentia Road in Mississauga) will follow in the coming weeks.
