A Morrisons store in Preston is trialling AI trolleys equipped with three cameras and built-in scales, letting shoppers track their spending in real time. The trial could be rolled out across the UK.
How the AI Trolleys Work
A TikTok user from the account Cost of Living Crisis Tips demonstrated the bulky grey and green trolley, which features a tablet at the handle. “They have three built-in cameras, you scan your shopping as you go along and the iPad at the front updates your basket,” they said.
Shoppers can add loose fruit and veg by selecting the item on the tablet and placing it in the bag; the trolley weighs it and displays the price. Items with barcodes can be scanned in front of the large screen. Products can be removed by crossing them off the tablet.
The TikTok user noted that a Morrisons More Card may be needed, and said: “I think they are going to roll them out everywhere I reckon. These look expensive … I think they are going to need a guard for these.” Once shopping is complete, customers scan a barcode from the screen at the self checkout to pay.
Mixed Reactions from Shoppers
Viewers on TikTok offered a range of opinions. One person wrote: “Can afford AI trolleys, can't afford to reduce prices.” Another responded: “I imagine they'll replace the staff eventually.”
A third commenter added: “So they invest millions into these AI trolleys but still want to charge customers 50p for plastic bags. Obviously not losing that much money.”
Some users joked about potential glitches. One said: “'Error, your banana is one gram too heavy. Calling over the assistant for you now.'” Another quipped: “Then it says 'unexpected item in baggage area', and then 'we need to find a member of staff'.”
Concerns Over Costs
Others focused on pricing. One viewer noted: “I'm sorry 22p for a single banana.” Another agreed: “God I miss cheap bananas.” The TikTok user highlighted a benefit: the system saves time repacking the trolley, adding: “I didn't buy a lot of stuff but you can imagine that if you get loads of food how easy it is going to be.”
