Trigo, a Tel Aviv-based computer vision company, announced a partnership on Monday with discount supermarket giant Netto Marken-Discount, also known as Netto, on a hybrid checkout-free grocery store in Munich.
Trigo transforms existing supermarkets into fully autonomous or hybrid digital stores, combining AI technology with ceiling-mounted cameras to create an innovative shopping experience. Shoppers use an app to scan a QR code as they enter, and then they are free to pick up items and leave without having to go to the register.
The purchase amount is automatically deducted via the registered payment method stored in the app.
Netto is owned by the Edeka Group, one of the largest food chains in the world, and has more than 4,000 stores across Germany. It offers one of the largest overall selections of groceries in the German discount market.
The new 250-sq.m. hybrid Netto store will be located in Munich’s Schwabing West neighborhood, near the University of Munich, a predominantly residential area.
The store will provide students and other shoppers with access to discount prices on everyday goods, including freshly baked products, fruits and vegetables. Age verification for alcohol and tobacco will be processed once through the app on customers’ first visit.
To ensure that shoppers who prefer to use traditional checkout can still do so, Netto has opted for a hybrid concept where the checkout counter is still accessible.
“Trigo works with some of the biggest names in the retail space, and we are particularly excited to be partnering with Netto to open the first hybrid-frictionless discount store in the world,” Trigo co-founder and CEO Michael Gabay said in a press release. “The general public will be able to enjoy the competitive pricing of the discounter together with a great shopping experience.”
Trigo has recently partnered with other major retailers, including Tesco, REWE and ALDI Nord, to bring their seamless shopping solution to all corners of Europe.
Christina Stylianou, head of Corporate Communications at Netto Marken-Discount, said: “Using ‘Pick&Go,’ we’re testing an innovative shopping service for customers. At the same time, this new offer enables us to respond to the current desire of many people for fewer contacts in everyday life.”