Morrisons rolls out Instacart AI smart trolleys in UK first

The supermarket has teamed up with the American grocery technology company to launch the Caper smart trolleys at Morrisons in Preston. 

Caper smart trolleys are designed to bring the “convenience and intelligence” of online shopping into stores, with the launch arriving as consumers seek tech that supports their shopping needs.

The trolleys automatically register items when placed inside, including weighing fresh produce there and then. Customers can bag items while shopping to save time and make the checkout more seamless.

The touchscreen displays a running basket total to help customers keep to their budget, while also recommending products relevant to that shopper.

Morrisons productivity director Gordon Macpherson said: “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we’re always looking for ways to make their weekly shop easier, more rewarding, and more enjoyable, to give them more reasons to shop at Morrisons.

“Caper smart trolleys do exactly that, giving customers real-time visibility of their spending, instant access to their More Card savings, and a more seamless experience in the aisle. 

“We’re proud to be the first UK retailer to bring this technology to our customers, and we look forward to seeing how shoppers in Preston and across Lancashire respond to this innovative new trolley in this in-store trial.” 

Instacart chief connected stores officer David McIntosh added: “Caper smart trolleys represent a new era for in-store grocery shopping – one where the physical store is as intelligent and personalised as the best online experience.

“Customers want technology that helps them stay on budget and discover products they love, and Caper smart trolleys deliver both, directly in the aisle.

“We’re proud to bring this to the UK for the first time through our partnership with Morrisons, which shares our belief that technology should make the weekly shop not just easier, but genuinely more enjoyable.”