Coles is trialling an AI-powered Smart Trolley at its Richmond Traders store in Melbourne from January 2025. The trolley, developed in partnership with North American grocery technology company Instacart, is designed to enhance the shopping experience by allowing customers to track their spending in real-time, pack as they shop, and bypass the checkout line.

The Coles Smart Trolley utilises AI technology, sensors, and an in-built scale to scan groceries directly into shopping bags, including fresh produce. The trolley features an interactive digital screen that displays current in-store specials and product aisle locations, adding an element of convenience for customers.

"As the first retailer in Australia to introduce AI-powered trolleys, we're excited to offer our customers a convenient and engaging way to shop in-store, helping them save time, manage their budget and checkout faster - or at their own pace," said Ben Hassing, Coles Chief Digital Officer.

"The Coles Smart Trolley illustrates our omnichannel approach, leveraging digital capabilities to enrich the in-store experience. We are committed to testing and learning through innovative solutions to make sure we are delivering on customer needs, increasing convenience, and helping customers discover more value through their shop at Coles."

Customers who scan their Coles App or Flybuys card can collect Flybuys points during their shop and participate in a 'Spin the Wheel' game for a chance to win additional discounts. However, the Smart Trolley does not support the purchase of certain items, including iTunes cards, gift cards, mobile phone and mobile phone plans, recharge, Opal top up, calling cards, charity products, soda stream gas cylinder, tobacco, and tobacco-related product purchases.

David McIntosh, Instacart Chief Connected Stores Officer, commented on the partnership, "At Instacart, we have spent the last decade empowering retailers with the technologies they need to better serve their customers any way they choose to shop, and we're delighted to partner with Coles Group to bring the Caper Cart technology to Australia and APAC for the first time." He also noted that customers appreciate the real-time budget management feature and the opportunity to discover further discounts through the digital wheel.

This partnership between Coles and Instacart marks the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region. Instacart is a leading grocery technology company in North America, partnering with more than 1,500 national, regional, and local retail banners.

The Coles Smart Trolley trial represents a significant step forward in retail technology, potentially setting a new standard for in-store shopping experiences.