Amazon.com Inc. is discontinuing its cashierless Just Walk Out system from grocery stores, marking a step back from its ambitious technology aimed at enabling shoppers to skip the checkout line.
The decision to remove the system comes as Amazon remodels existing Fresh grocery stores and plans to exclude it from new locations set to open later this year, according to an Amazon spokesperson.
Tony Hoggett, Amazon’s senior vice president of grocery stores, who joined the company in 2022, initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the grocery business. This move comes amidst the struggle to gain market share in an industry dominated by retail giants like Walmart Inc. and Kroger Co.
Amazon is shifting its focus to the Dash Cart, a technology that allows shoppers to scan items as they shop. However, the company is simplifying the technology to make it more user-friendly.
Initially, the Dash Carts utilized cameras to automatically identify items picked up by shoppers. In newer versions, some cameras have been removed, and shoppers are required to hold items in front of scanners that can read barcodes and other cues. Additionally, shoppers can use a touchscreen to ring up items like produce that lack barcodes.
The Information first reported on the discontinuation of the Just Walk Out technology.
The Just Walk Out system, utilizing ceiling-mounted cameras and shelf sensors supported by algorithms, automatically detects items taken by shoppers, who are then charged upon exiting the store.
Originally developed over a decade ago, the technology was spearheaded by Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s former CEO, as part of the company’s foray into physical stores. It was introduced in 2018 with the opening of a convenience store at Amazon’s Seattle headquarters.
Amazon Go convenience stores continued to use the Just Walk Out technology, and the company also licensed it to other retailers. Additionally, smaller stores in the UK will continue to utilize the system.
