Lidl to test smartphone self-scanning in Netherlands

German discounter Lidl is to trial self-scanning with smartphones in two Dutch stores, so that customers can use their mobile device to scan their own groceries.

Improve experience

In two Dutch stores (Apeldoorn and Beuningen), Lidl will allow its customers to scan groceries with their own smartphone and then pay at the self-service checkout. The test should be a step towards a more efficient purchasing process. “The aim of Scan & Go is to make shopping as easy and relaxed as possible for our customers and reduce waiting times at the checkout”, Sales Strategy Manager Malou Boerstal explained.

Customers who wish to use the Scan&Go have to check in on the Lidl Plus app, using the unique QR code or via GPS location. Then they can scan their products themselves and put them into their bags. At the checkout, all they have to do is pay. However, the option is only visible to customers in Apeldoorn and Beuningen who have marked one of the two stores as a favourite in the Lidl app.