Costco has launched a pilot of its mobile self-checkout system, known as Scan and Go, in an effort to address one of the most frequent complaints from its members: long checkout lines.
Ron Vachris, CEO of Costco, confirmed the pilot during a recent third-quarter earnings call. “We’re running a Scan and Go test, and the initial feedback has been very positive,” he said, noting strong early adoption among customers.
The Scan and Go system allows shoppers to scan items using their smartphones as they shop. Customers then pay through the Costco app and present a digital receipt to a staff member at the exit for verification.
Other major retailers have already implemented similar technologies. Sam’s Club, a division of Walmart, introduced its own Scan and Go feature years ago. Some locations now use AI-powered systems to verify purchases without manual receipt checks.
Although some Costco stores have installed self-checkout kiosks, most locations continue to rely on staffed registers. The mobile checkout pilot appears to be a response to ongoing member requests for faster and more autonomous checkout options.
“We’re testing new technologies to help members check out faster,” said Vachris. “Members can expect to see a variety of pilot programs launching soon.”
BY WONHEE CHO [cho.wonhee@koreadaily.com]
