Waitrose has extended its contract with mobile and tablet-based point-of-sale technology platform supplier PCMS for a further 10 years.

The deal allows Waitrose to use the scalable software across its store estate.

OnDemand lets shoppers and staff scan items for payment using in-store tablets and self-checkout machines.

The platform works with the grocer’s existing Quick Check technology, through which customers self-scan their items using a handheld device.

It will also integrate into Waitrose’s other in-store systems, including the self-checkout machines, and will include functions for price, promotions and basket calculations.

Flexible platform

Waitrose’s head of IT delivery Charles Webb said: “PCMS’ OnDemand platform will allow us the operational agility to deploy new applications when and where we want in the future.

“With different store concepts, such as Grazing and Juice Bars, we want the flexibility to operate mobile payment devices and to launch new ideas quickly, while maintaining a reliable customer-centric shopping experience”

Charles Webb

“With different store concepts, such as Grazing and Juice Bars, we want the flexibility to operate mobile payment devices and to launch new ideas quickly, while maintaining a reliable customer-centric shopping experience.

“PCMS will be instrumental in helping us to deliver this.”

Waitrose has worked with PCMS on its bricks-and-mortar technology since introducing Quick Check hand-held scanners in-store in 2003.