News

Kroger cuts checkout time with predictive line technology

May 2, 2013

Kroger grocery stores may be winning the battle against long lines at the checkout. According to an article on wsj.com, the infrared camera technology the chain installed in its more than 2,400 stores in 2010 have reduced the customer's time in the checkout line by 26 seconds.

The cameras detect body heat and are positioned at the store entrances and above cash registers at most of Kroger's stores. They are paired with in-house software that determines the number of lanes that need to be open, the article reported.

"The technology enabled us to execute at the front of the store without that additional (labor) expense," said Marnette Perry, senior vice president of retail operations for Kroger. "It's remarkable that we've been able to improve execution as much as we have without a big price tag."

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