Morrisons debuts AI-powered smart trolleys in UK retail first

The Caper Cart system uses integrated sensors to automatically identify products as they are placed in the trolley, including an onboard scale for fresh produce. A touchscreen mounted on the handle provides a real-time running total of the basket, helping shoppers monitor their budget while offering personalized product recommendations. Customers can also scan their More Card loyalty accounts directly on the device to apply savings throughout their visit.

At the end of the trip, shoppers complete their purchase by scanning a barcode displayed on the cart screen at a designated Caper checkout lane. David McIntosh, Chief Connected Stores Officer at Instacart, described the rollout as an effort to make physical stores as intelligent and personalized as online shopping environments. Gordon Macpherson, Productivity Director at Morrisons, noted that the initiative is designed to provide greater visibility into spending and a more seamless experience in the aisles. Following its success in over 100 cities across the US and Australia, the technology is now undergoing its first UK trial in Preston to gauge consumer response across Lancashire.