Checkers has introduced South Africa’s first smart shopping trolley, marking a major step forward in creating a frictionless, technology-driven in-store experience.

Known as the Xpress Trolley, the innovation allows customers to scan-and-bag items as they shop, track a live total of their basket, and pay directly on the trolley—eliminating the need to queue at traditional checkout points.

Developed by the ShopriteX innovation team, the Xpress Trolley is designed to put shoppers firmly in control of their journey. A built-in screen guides users through the process, displaying product details, personalised promotions, and a running total of purchases. It also helps with in-store navigation, showing where items are located, making shopping faster and more convenient.

Following successful internal testing, the pilot will now roll out to customers at two stores in the Western Cape: Checkers Hyper Brackenfell and Checkers Constantia, with 10 smart trolleys available at each location.

Using the trolley is simple: customers scan their Xtra Savings card to begin, place their shopping bags into the trolley, and scan each product before adding it. Payment is made directly from the trolley via the bank card saved to the shopper’s Checkers Sixty60 profile, after which a printed slip allows for quick exit through a dedicated gate. A concierge is on hand to provide support.

“This pilot allows us to reimagine the in-store journey using technology for a more frictionless shopping experience,” says Neil Schreuder, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer at the Shoprite Group. “The Xpress Trolley enhances convenience, improves speed, and empowers customers with real-time control.”

Insights from the trial will inform the Shoprite Group’s wider strategy to lead as South Africa’s most seamless omnichannel retailer, while exploring opportunities to enhance efficiency for Sixty60 in-store pickers.

//Staff writer