Checkers Launches Smart Trolley In SA Which Might See An End To Cashiers

Checkers has officially introduced South Africa’s first-ever smart trolley, marking a significant milestone in the local retail industry. The innovation—called the Xpress Smart Trolley—allows customers to scan items, track a live basket total, and pay directly from the trolley, removing the need to queue at a traditional checkout.

Developed by ShopriteX, the group’s innovation arm, the smart trolley pilot seeks to enhance customer convenience and reshape the in-store shopping experience. While similar technology has been adopted internationally, this is the first time South African shoppers will have access to the concept.

How the Xpress Smart Trolley Works

The trolley is equipped with a large touchscreen and a built-in barcode scanner. To begin, customers scan their Xtra Savings card and load their Checkers Sixty60 profile. From there, shoppers can:

• Scan items as they place them into the trolley.
• Track a live running total to monitor spending.
• Browse personalised promotions and product details.
• Edit the digital basket if they change their mind.
• Pay directly on the trolley using saved card details.

Upon completing their shop, customers exit through a dedicated checkout lane, collect a printed receipt, and leave—without visiting a traditional till. A concierge will also be available in-store to assist first-time users.

Where the Pilot is Rolling Out

The pilot is launching in two Western Cape locations:

Checkers Hyper Brackenfell – initial testing began here in mid-August with staff. Ten trolleys will now be available for customer use.

Checkers Constantia – a further 10 trolleys will be introduced after the Brackenfell rollout.

“This pilot allows us to reimagine the in-store journey using technology for a more frictionless shopping experience,” Shoprite said. “We are also excited about the potential it holds for Sixty60’s in-store pickers, specifically the additional speed and accuracy with which the in-store picking process can be completed.”

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