Sainsbury’s is to trial an app that builds customer baskets with the aim of cutting time spent in store and at the till.

The app will allow customers to build a virtual basket of favourite products before they shop. It will then navigate customers around the shop to find their items faster.

Customers also scan items at the shelf and pay through their mobiles.

The app is being trialled by Sainsbury’s staff over the next few weeks and will be available to Nectar card holders later next year.

Jon Rudoe, digital and technology director at Sainsbury’s, said: “We know that customers’ weekly shop doesn’t start at our front door - they know what they like and they also like that search for a bargain.

“They still want to come into store - but with limited time, they want to be able to get their shop done quickly.

“That’s why we’re putting digital firmly at the forefront of our agenda, and putting technology in the hands of our customers.”