ShopRite, a Northeast regional grocer under retailer-owned grocery co-op Wakefern Food Corp., is revolutionizing the shopping experience by deploying AI-equipped shopping carts in more stores. The company is adding Instacart Caper Carts at four stores in the Philadelphia area, following a recent rollout at a store in Hoboken, N.J. ShopRite debuted its use of the Instacart smart cart technology in June 2023 and now offers it at 11 stores.
Innovative Shopping Experience
Caper Carts feature an interactive screen that engages customers, tracks spending, provides direct access to coupons and deals through a loyalty program, and enables shoppers to check out from anywhere in the store. Moreover, the carts deliver personalized recommendations as customers shop and introduce gamification elements that reward consumers upon reaching a spending threshold.
Enhanced Customer Benefits
Customers can link their ShopRite Price Plus loyalty membership to receive in-store savings and deals. To check out, shoppers simply scan the barcode displayed on the cart's screen at the store's self-checkout area. ShopRite is also available through Instacart’s e-commerce delivery platform.
Future Expansion and Adoption
Wakefern anticipates more of its members in various banners, including ShopRite's new store opening in Mount Kisco, N.Y., to adopt the technology in the coming year. Caper Carts have also been deployed in Wakefern's Fairway Market subsidiary, enhancing the shopping experience for customers across different locations.
Positive Customer Response
Charlie McWeeney, VP of technology, digital, and retail at Wakefern, shared that shoppers are enthusiastic about the technology and have embraced it in stores utilizing the Caper Carts. He highlighted that this innovative tool offers customers smart and convenient ways to shop and check out, aligning with evolving consumer preferences.
In conclusion, ShopRite's expansion of AI-equipped smart carts signifies a proactive approach to enhancing the shopping journey for customers. By leveraging innovative technology and interactive features, the company is shaping the future of retail by providing personalized, efficient, and rewarding shopping experiences for its patrons.