No checkouts, no queues: are Amazon Go supermarkets coming to the UK?

Amazon has five checkout-free stores in the US 
Amelia Heathman8 October 2018

Amazon is reportedly scouting for new locations to launch its Amazon Go supermarkets in the UK.

The cashierless supermarkets use technology to allow customers to pick up items and walk out with them, instead, charging their Amazon account so they don't have to stand in a checkout queue.

According to The Sunday Times, the retailer is looking for “a significant number” of sites sized between 4,000 sq ft and 5,000 sq ft across the UK.

Amazon initially launched the concept back in 2016, allowing Amazon staff to trial the new technology. Since then, it has opened five stores in the US across Seattle and Chicago.

How does Amazon Go work?

Customers download an Amazon Go app before entering the store. They have to use the app to enter the store, which registers their Amazon account, and then they can put their phone away and start shopping.

Amazon’s “Just Walk Out Technology” uses computer vision, sensor fusion and deep learning to detect when products are taken off a shelf, or later returned.

The technology keeps track of all the items in a virtual cart so there is no scanning involved. Once customers are done shopping they can leave the store and Amazon will charge your account.

Amazon now has five Amazon Go locations across the US 
Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

When will it come to the UK?

It was only a matter of time before it brought the Amazon Go brand to the UK. The company filed several trademarks with the UK Intellectual Property Office last year, including slogans such as “No Lines. No Checkout. (No Seriously.)” This slogan appeared on Amazon’s YouTube video initially promoting the store

There is a difference between having the no checkout stores strictly for Amazon customers and allowing the general public in to try them out.

In 2017, the Wall Street Journal reported that the technology faced problems when there were more than 20 people in the store, something Amazon has been working to correct and, as a result, has delayed the expected roll out of further locations.

At the moment, it’s unlikely that Amazon Go will arrive to compete with your local Tesco or Sainsbury’s. The stores stock ready-to-eat items for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with some grocery essential ranges too, however, stock varies depending on which store you are in.

But, when it does arrive in the UK, it will no doubt be celebrated by busy Londoners. The idea of being able to pick up some lunch and walk out of the door without queueing is a dreamy one, we admit.

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