Trolley-tech: Coles unveils its 'Smart Trolley'

Coles is claimed to be the first retailer in Australia to trial an all-in-one AI-powered Smart Trolley. Developed in partnership with grocery technology company, Instacart, the Coles Smart Trolley is designed to allow users to track their spending in real time, pack as they shop and skip the checkout line.

The technology will be trialled at Coles Richmond Traders in Melbourne from January 2025. The trolleys are now being used at the store to allow users to learn how to use them before the trial begins.

The smart trolleys use AI technology, sensors and an in-built scale to scan groceries directly into shopping bags, including fresh produce, and streamline the checkout process by paying on the trolley.

Featuring a digital screen which displays current in-store specials and product aisle locations, the trolley is designed to make it easier to locate items and features a running total to help users manage their budget.

Coles Chief Digital Officer, Ben Hassing, said, “We’re excited to offer our customers a convenient and engaging way to shop in-store, helping them save time, manage their budget and checkout faster — or at their own pace.”

Instacart Chief Connected Stores Officer, David McIntosh, said the partnership with Coles represented an exciting entry into the APAC market.

“With cost-of-living pressures top of mind, we’ve found customers especially love the way the digital screen on the trolley helps them to see their running total and manage their budget in real-time along with discovering further discounts and money off their total by spinning the digital wheel.”

Image caption: Coles Smart Trolley in Coles Richmond Traders in Melbourne. Image credit: Coles.