Carrefour Introduces Smart Shopping Cart System In Romania

This cart functions as an integrated shopping assistant, helping customers optimise their route, view available products, and see their cart’s total value in real time, the retailer noted.

To use the service, customers log in through the Act for Good loyalty platform on the Carrefour mobile app.

The system allows shoppers to create their shopping lists directly on the cart’s touchscreen, which then generates an optimal route through the store, guiding them to each product.

As items are scanned, their price and details appear instantly on the screen. The cart also includes a help button that, thanks to geolocation, allows staff to quickly locate and assist customers.

Carrefour views considers it  a significant step in digitising the in-store experience and enhancing customer convenience. Since its pilot launch with 40 devices in the Corbeanca store, over 3,500 customers have already used the system, indicating strong interest.

The system streamlines the checkout process by generating a barcode at the end of shopping, allowing for quick scanning and payment.

Cart Highlights

Designed for heavy use, the cart boasts a substantial 180 kg carrying capacity and an 18-hour battery life. A six-hour charging time ensures the cart remains operational, accommodating a steady stream of shoppers.

The ergonomic design also simplifies the loading process, allowing for direct placement of groceries into reusable bags or boxes.

The cart is also compatible with Bringo and Glovo delivery platforms, seamlessly integrating with Carrefour’s broader omnichannel services for both in-store shoppers and those opting for delivery, ESM reports.

Fabrice Gratien Besson, director of security, quality and homes at Carrefour Romania, commented, “Smart Cart is a major step in our strategy to digitise the in-store experience and a testament to Carrefour’s commitment to innovation for the benefit of the customer.

“We launched this pilot project in the Corbeanca hypermarket with 40 devices, and since its launch, over 3,500 customers have already used Smart Cart, demonstrating the growing interest in this system that makes shopping faster and more efficient. We believe this is the beginning of an important transformation, where technology and in-store experience work together.”