Amazon is testing what it calls the world's most advanced shopping technology – a new-concept grocery store called Amazon Go. It has no checkout counters or queues. The technology works via an app. The app checks in when the shopper enters the store. It lets you shop and then scans what you have when you leave the store. Amazon then charges this to your Amazon account later. There is no waiting for slow customers or for change.
Amazon Go may improve shopping and help brick-and-mortar stores. The grocery store market is very tough. Profit margins are low and competition is high. Amazon seems confident it can succeed. Rumours are it will open 2,000 stores across the USA. It could also sell its technology to retailers worldwide. An industry analyst said Amazon Go makes going shopping, "just as convenient, if not more convenient, than online shopping".
