Instacart (Nasdaq: CART), a leading North American grocery technology company, and ALDI SOUTH Group, a rapidly expanding global grocer, have announced a significant expansion of their partnership. This new phase will see Instacart’s Connected Stores technologies implemented across ALDI SOUTH Group stores in the United States, alongside a pilot of AI-powered Caper Carts in Austria.
The collaboration builds on the successful partnership that began in 2017, which has seen ALDI offer same-day delivery through Instacart. The new initiative will introduce a range of Connected Stores technologies aimed at enhancing the shopping experience both online and in-store.
Instacart’s Connected Stores suite includes several key innovations:
- In-Store Mode: This feature enables customers to view stock levels, access product information, sort items by aisle, and discover in-store promotions through the Instacart app. For retailers, it offers a comprehensive view of customer interactions, whether online or in-store.
- Carrot Tags: Designed to streamline the shopping process, Carrot Tags use pick-to-light technology to help shoppers find items quickly. The system, already operational in over 100 ALDI stores in Illinois and Ohio, will be rolled out nationwide across the US in the coming months.
- Pickup Fulfillment Technology: Leveraging the Instacart Shopper App’s technology, this solution enhances the efficiency of e-commerce pickup orders. It simplifies the picking and packing process, enabling quicker curbside pickup for customers.
In addition to these technologies, ALDI SOUTH Group is testing Caper Carts in its Sattledt store in Austria. These AI-powered smart carts allow customers to scan and add items directly into the cart, track their total spend via a digital screen, and opt for a streamlined checkout process via a “fast lane” for card payments.
David McIntosh, VP and GM of Connected Stores at Instacart, expressed enthusiasm about the expanded partnership. “Retailers like ALDI SOUTH Group value our omnichannel solutions that offer personalised and convenient shopping experiences. We are excited to introduce Caper Carts to Europe through ALDI SOUTH Group, marking our first foray into the region with this technology,” McIntosh said.
Scott Patton, Vice President of National Buying at ALDI U.S., highlighted the benefits of the new technologies. “By integrating Instacart’s Connected Stores technologies across the nation, we are enhancing the shopping journey for millions of customers. Whether shopping online, through our app, or in-store, customers will experience a seamless and efficient process.”
The expanded partnership aims to provide a unified shopping experience that bridges online and physical store interactions. Customers in the US can access ALDI for same-day delivery and pickup via the Instacart app or through Instacart’s website.
For further information on Instacart’s platform and technologies, visit Instacart’s website.
