Morrisons has become the first UK supermarket to trial Instacart's AI-powered Caper smart trolleys, launching the technology at its Preston store as retailers continue to invest in digital solutions that enhance the in-store shopping experience.

The smart trolleys automatically recognise products as they are placed inside, including weighing loose fruit and vegetables, allowing shoppers to pack as they go and complete their purchase more quickly at a dedicated checkout.

Designed to bring some of the convenience of online shopping into physical stores, the trolleys display a running basket total, provide personalised product recommendations and allow customers to scan their Morrisons More card to access loyalty offers and discounts throughout their shop.

David McIntosh, Chief Connected Stores Officer at Instacart, said: "Caper smart trolleys represent a new era for in-store grocery shopping, one where the physical store is as intelligent and personalised as the best online experience.

"Customers want technology that helps them stay on budget and discover products they love, and Caper smart trolleys deliver both, directly in the aisle."

The launch follows consumer research commissioned by Instacart, which found that 54% of UK shoppers enjoy discovering products they were not originally looking for, while 53% have decided against buying groceries because they were unsure they could afford them. Nearly half (46%) said loyalty programmes are their preferred way of managing grocery spending.

Gordon Macpherson, Productivity Director at Morrisons, said the trial is focused on improving convenience for customers.

"Our customers are at the heart of everything we do, and we're always looking for ways to make their weekly shop easier, more rewarding and more enjoyable," he said.

"Caper smart trolleys do exactly that, giving customers real-time visibility of their spending, instant access to their More Card savings, and a more seamless experience in the aisle."

The Preston trial marks Instacart's first retail partnership in the UK. Its Caper smart trolleys are already in use across more than 100 cities in the US and Australia with retailers including Kroger, Wakefern Food Corp., Schnucks and Coles.

The move reflects growing investment in AI and connected retail technologies as supermarkets seek to improve customer experience, personalise shopping journeys and integrate digital capabilities into bricks-and-mortar stores.

IFE 2027, taking place on 5-7 April at Excel London as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, will bring together retailers, brands and technology providers to explore the innovations shaping the future of food and drink retail.