Amazon Phases Out Cashierless Technology at Fresh Supermarkets

Amazon is making a strategic shift in its grocery operations by removing the cashierless checkout systems from its Fresh supermarkets across the U.S. The company confirmed that it will no longer include the Just Walk Out system in existing Fresh stores or upcoming locations.

This decision signifies a significant recalibration of Amazon’s grocery strategy. Instead of Just Walk Out, the e-commerce giant will focus on Amazon Dash Carts and a typical self-checkout approach, enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.

An Amazon spokesperson, Carly Golden, highlighted that the recent redesigns at Amazon Fresh stores have led to improved customer satisfaction scores and increased sales. Customers expressed the desire for features like easily locating products, accessing deals, viewing receipts in real-time, and monitoring savings while shopping.

While Amazon Fresh supermarkets will no longer feature Just Walk Out technology, Amazon Go convenience stores and select Fresh locations in the U.K. will continue to utilize the cashierless system. Additionally, Amazon will maintain its licensing of the technology to third-party retailers.

Just Walk Out technology was initially introduced by Amazon at a convenience store on its Seattle campus. The innovative system relied on advanced cameras and sensors to track items taken by shoppers and automatically charge them upon exiting.

Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, envisioned Just Walk Out as a breakthrough in the grocery market, aiming to eliminate the hassle of traditional checkout lines. However, the evolution of Amazon’s strategic approach has led to the shift away from this technology.

Despite moving away from Just Walk Out at Fresh supermarkets, Amazon will retain the technology in select Amazon Go stores and Fresh locations in the U.K. The company continues to explore new avenues for expansion in the competitive grocery sector.