In a bid to revolutionize the shopping experience, Amazon has rolled out its cashier-less technology in Canada, allowing shoppers to skip the checkout line entirely. This innovative system, already in operation in the United States since 2018, is now making its debut at select locations in Canada, offering a grab-and-go shopping experience.
Amazon’s cashier-less technology has found its way into two prominent arenas: Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary and Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. At these locations, shoppers can enter the store, select their desired items from the shelves, and exit without the need to stand in line or interact with a cashier. Instead, customers simply use their credit or debit cards or payment-enabled phones to open a gate, and their payment is instantly charged.
A Solution to Long Wait Times
The choice to launch this technology in arenas stems from the common frustration shoppers experience while waiting in long lines to purchase snacks during events.
Ziad Mehio, Vice-President of Information Technology and Food and Beverage for Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation, believes that the system will alleviate these issues, allowing customers to quickly return to their seats without missing out on the action.
The Technology Behind It
This cashier-less shopping experience relies on a sophisticated network of cameras and sensors installed on the store’s ceilings and shelves.
By using computer vision, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, the system can track when items are picked up or returned to the shelves, automatically adding the items to a virtual shopping cart and charging the customer accordingly. Importantly, the technology does not employ facial recognition or biometrics.
Privacy Concerns and the Future
While the convenience of checkout-free shopping is undeniable, it raises important privacy concerns. Amazon’s system gathers purchase information, which is then shared with third-party retailers. Former privacy commissioner of Ontario, Ann Cavoukian, advises shoppers to inquire about the details of data collection and sharing, emphasizing the importance of informed consent.
Despite these concerns, the adoption of cashier-less technology in retail is on the rise. Startups like Trigo, Grabango, Brysk, and Aisle 24 are developing similar systems. Professor Maxime Cohen of McGill University believes that the trend is growing rapidly, with potential benefits for workers. Cashiers in these stores may transition to more varied roles, providing enhanced services and reducing their focus on repetitive tasks.
Changing the Retail Landscape
Amazon’s cashier-less technology marks a significant step forward in the world of retail, offering shoppers a convenient and efficient way to make purchases.
While concerns about data privacy persist, the potential for enhanced customer service and improved efficiency could pave the way for further adoption in various retail settings. Whether shoppers fully embrace this technology remains to be seen, but its impact on the retail landscape is undeniable.
