Amazon just unveiled what it describes as the world's most advanced shopping technology. It is the prime feature its new-concept grocery store that has no queues or checkout counters. It is called Amazon Go and is being trialled the company's hometown Seattle. The technology works an app a shopper's mobile device. The app automatically checks when the shopper enters the store. It lets you shop as normal and then scans what you have bought as you leave the store. Amazon then bills you later and the shopping gets charged your Amazon account. There is no waiting line, no cashiers, and no being held by slow customers, credit card transactions or waiting change.
Amazon Go may revolutionize the high street shopping experience and provide a much-needed boost brick-and-mortar stores. The grocery and convenience store markets are extremely tough nuts to crack. Profit margins are low and competition is intense. However, Amazon seems confident it can change people's shopping habits. Rumours are that the online retail giant has plans 2,000 grocery stores the USA. It could also get involved selling the software its shopping technology to retailers worldwide. Industry analyst Colin Sebastian suggested Amazon Go could challenge Internet shopping. He said: "It makes it just as convenient, if not more convenient, than online shopping some cases."
