Kroger Launches Contactless Payment Pilot

The Kroger Co. has launched a contactless payments pilot across its QFC division, located in Seattle, allowing customers to use their mobile devices for a more seamless checkout experience. The pilot includes the acceptance of Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, mobile banking apps and contactless chip cards, underpinned by near-field communication (NFC) technology.

“QFC is excited to pilot contactless payments powered by NFC technology, providing our customers with an additional way to pay for their fresh food and household essentials,” said Chris Albi, president of QFC, in a statement. “The contactless payment solution will help make life easier for many of our customers and provide the freedom of choice among various options, including cash, debit, credit and check.”

Kroger’s technology team recently enabled NFC payments at 61 QFC stores. The NFC technology uses a radio frequency field to transmit data between two devices—a mobile device and PIN pad—eliminating physical contact. Customers can place their mobile device or contactless chip card near the PIN pad and payment data is transmitted from the device or card to the terminal to process the transaction.

The new technology is part of the Cincinnati-based grocer’s efforts to personalize the shopping experience. “Kroger continues to invest in innovative technologies that advance the customer experience, including our payment systems,” said Kathy Hanna, Kroger’s senior director of payments, in a release. “Providing our customers with flexibility—whether that means having the option to choose between shopping in-store or online for groceries or how you pay for them—we are committed to personalizing their shopping trip.”

The QFC pilot supports the more than 30 policy and process changes Kroger has implemented since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to promote social distancing and safeguard associates, customers and communities.

Other contactless solutions offered by Kroger include Kroger Pay, a touchless mobile payment solution; Scan, Bag, Go, which allows shoppers to scan groceries using a mobile device; and pickup and delivery.