Technology
Aldi debuts checkout free grocery option in Chicago
June 6, 2024
Supermarket chain Aldi has launched checkout free grocery, called Aldigo, with Grabango, at one location.
The technology, which lets shoppers skip the checkout line, is being used in a Chicago-area store, according to a press release.
"The launch of Aldigo is a pivotal moment for the grocery industry," Will Glaser, CEO of Grabango, said in the release. "Although more challenging, it was important to us to launch this technology in a typical store and not one purpose-built for us. Aldi is one of the most innovative retailers in the world, and we are honored to partner with them to give their shoppers an exciting new way to shop the store."
The Grabango system was deployed without having to make any changes to the store's planogram or product displays. The technology, which uses computer vision to identify and keep track of every item in the store doesn't even require a consumer to scan a code. The store is in Aurora, Illinois.
"It's exciting to see a checkout-free capability live in one of our stores," Eric Traxler, vice president of IT at Aldi, said in the release. "Aldi is continuously looking for new ways to be innovative and provide a best-in-class experience for our shoppers, and Aldigo is a great example of that in action."
When done shopping, shoppers can pay with either their credit or debit card, or via the Grabango app, at the Grabango pay station near the exit.
The news comes on the heels of Aldi announcing it plans to add 800 stores to its nationwide footprint by the end of 2028. The $9 billion expansion will include openings and store conversions, according to a press release.
