Amazon Just Walk Out Tech Expands to Whole Foods

Amazon's Just Walk Out Technology Expands to Whole Foods

Following its initial rollout in Go stores and subsequent availability at larger Fresh supermarkets, Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology is slated for implementation in two Whole Foods Market locations.

The innovative service, enabling shoppers to select items and depart the store without traditional checkout, is scheduled to launch in new stores situated in Washington DC and Sherman Oaks, California, in the coming year, as announced by the company.

Streamlining the Shopping Experience

“Through collaboration with Amazon to introduce Just Walk Out shopping at these two Whole Foods Market stores, our customers will gain the convenience of… reducing time spent by bypassing the checkout process,” stated John Mackey, co-founder of Whole Foods.

As previously reported, Just Walk Out leverages computer vision, sensor technology, and artificial intelligence to facilitate a seamless shopping experience.

Customers can enter the store, register via a dedicated app, fill their shopping bags, and exit without needing to wait in a checkout line.

Expanding Beyond Amazon-Owned Stores

Beyond its use in Amazon’s Go and Fresh stores, Amazon entered into an agreement last year to license this technology to external retail partners.

The functionality within Whole Foods, which is owned by Amazon, will remain consistent.

Shoppers will have the option to utilize the technology upon entry by scanning the Amazon app, inserting a debit card connected to their Amazon account, or utilizing the Amazon One palm-scanning system.

Impact on Employment

Concerns have been raised by unions regarding potential job displacement due to Amazon’s cashierless technology.

However, Amazon asserts that the new Whole Foods locations will “maintain a similar staffing level to existing Whole Foods stores of comparable size.”

The company further suggests that employees will be able to “dedicate more time to customer interaction and enhancing the overall shopping experience,” as stated in a press release.

Note: This article was originally published on Engadget.