New 'scan and go' app trialled by Woolworths

Woolworths is changing the way customers use the checkout in a new trial of ‘Scan & Go’ technology.

The supermarket has invited a select group of customers to download an app that links their credit cards and allows them to scan item barcodes throughout the store.

Once shoppers have finished roaming the aisles they select the ‘pay’ option on the app and then ‘tap out’ with their phone at the exit of the supermarket, eliminating any need to queue and scan items at the checkout.

“It’s pretty easy once you get into the swing of it,” Paul Monnington, Head of Payments at Woolworths told 9NEWS. 

“Customers are telling us they’ve got busy lives and convenience is key.”

For loose items or fresh fruit and vegetables, there is a three step process – scan the item’s ticket price, weigh it and then scan the barcode that appears on the screen.

An added benefit is shoppers are able to track their spending as they walk the aisles, helping them to remain on budget.

Woolworths said extra checks and balances are being put into place to ensure security around the system, preventing shoppers from stealing or forgetting to pay for goods.

While many customers are yet to embrace the idea, Woolworths said the ‘Scan & Go’ system will remain on trial at their Double Bay store. 

“It’s all about supermarkets keeping ahead of the game and this kind of technology is going to continue,” QUT Retail Expert Gary Mortimer said.