Walmart Pilots Checkout Mobile App

NACS Daily News

The iPhone app allows customers to scan barcodes with their smartphone while they shop.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. – Reuters reports that Walmart Stores Inc. has begun testing “Scan & Go” that lets customers scan barcodes with an iPhone app will shopping, then pay at a self-checkout register.

Last week, some Walmart workers with iPhones tested the app at an Arkansas store. “All of the effort is to speed your way through the checkout so that we can reduce costs and improve the shopping experience,” said Paul Weitzel, managing partner at retail consulting firm Willard Bishop. Weitzel has no direct knowledge of the Walmart program. “With smartphones and improved technology we’re only going to see more of this.”

Earlier this year, Walmart indicated it would increase the number of self-checkout lanes at its Sam’s Club. The retailer has made no bones about its search to reduce costs and price tags for shoppers.

If some shoppers scanned their own items and made payments without needing a cashier, the company would shave millions of dollars off its bottom line. “We’re continually testing new and innovative ways to serve customers and enhance the shopping experience in our stores,” said David Tovar, Walmart spokesman.

Walmart already has an iPhone app that provides assistance in creating shopping lists and check item availability. The test program lets shoppers scan and bag products while they shop and then pay at a self-checkout register. However, the app will not allow payments with smartphones. In August, Walmart announced its participation in developing a mobile payment network with other retailers.