Amazon is set to launch Amazon Go stores in Chicago and San Francisco, marking the first expansion of the online retailer’s cashierless grocery store concept.
According to The Seattle Times, Amazon has posted job listings for store managers at the two cities and the company has confirmed its plans to open Amazon Go stores in locations.
However, no timetable or opening date has been announced yet.
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Amazon debuted it checkout-free grocery store in Seattle in January, and since then there has been speculation as to which city would be chosen next for the inevitable expansion of the concept.
It is not yet known when Amazon Go stores could open on this side of the pond, but in May last year, a trademark was approved by the UK Intellectual Property Office for Amazon Go’s slogan “No Lines. No Checkout. (No Seriously.)”, hinting that it could open a store here soon.
The first Amazon Go store in Seattle – located in the same building as the retail giant’s global headquarters – uses computer vision, machine-learning algorithms, cameras and sensors to track what shoppers take from the shelves, and automatically bills them as they exit the store.
Customers must first download an Amazon Go app and scan it as they pass through a gated turnstile to enter the 1800sq ft shop.
The cameras and sensors in-store also removes items from customers’ virtual baskets if they return an item back on the shelf while they are shopping.
Once customers exit the store through the gates, the credit card associated with their Amazon account is then billed the total amount of their virtual cart.
While the store is checkout-free, it still has employees who stock the shelves, help customers or make food.
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