Sam’s Club is testing out AI, computer vision tech to speed up exit process at stores

To speed up the time it takes shoppers to have their carts full of purchased items checked at Sam’s Club the retailer is testing out an application of artificial intelligence and computer vision technology.

Pilots are currently underway at 10 Sam’s Club locations and involves a combination of computer vision and digital technology which captures images of carts and verifies payment for all the items in the shopper’s possession.

Sam’s Club claims it came up with the program by listening to its members. Using people to check receipts and carts at the exit can be slow and can result in long lines, and members were asking if the process could go faster.

“We are constantly looking at ways for Sam’s Club to be the most convenient membership club and will continue to prioritize using technology to provide a differentiated and delightful experience for our members,” said Chris Nicholas, CEO of Sam’s Club.

The plan is to have the AI and computer vision technology at as many as 600 clubs by the end of the year.

Putting more speed into the checkout process is nothing new to Sam’s Club. Scan & Go was first tested in the Spring of 2019 and is now widely available to members. The technology allows shoppers to scan products by holding them under their smartphone and does not require a bar code. Scan & Go allows members to skip the checkout line and head straight to the exit.