Amazon is making changes to its Amazon Fresh stores by replacing the Just Walk Out technology with smart carts that offer real-time spending tracking. The decision was made based on customer feedback, as customers expressed a desire to view their receipts and savings as they shopped.
This move marks a shift in Amazon’s approach to its grocery chain, as the company has been redesigning its Fresh stores over the past year. Amazon operates numerous Fresh grocery stores across the country, with most located in California, Illinois, Virginia, and Washington state. In addition to Fresh stores, Amazon also operates cashier-free convenience stores under the Amazon Go brand and owns Whole Foods.
Despite initial efforts to disrupt the grocery market, Amazon has faced challenges in finding the right formula for its physical grocery endeavors. In Andy Jassy’s annual letter to shareholders in 2023, the CEO acknowledged the need to fine-tune the company’s approach to grocery operations. As a result, Amazon has closed some underperforming stores and paused expansion on Fresh stores while focusing on selectively opening new stores and remodeling existing ones.
While Just Walk Out technology will no longer be available in Amazon Fresh stores, it will still be offered in Amazon Go stores and select smaller Amazon Fresh stores in the U.K. The technology will also continue to be available to third-party retailers. This decision reflects Amazon’s commitment to meeting customer needs and improving the overall shopping experience for its customers.
Overall, this change is an example of how companies can adapt based on customer feedback and continuously improve their products or services. It shows that even giants like Amazon are not immune to making changes when necessary for their customers’ satisfaction.
