Asda is introducing electronic shelf edge labels (ESLs) to 250 of its largest and busiest Express convenience stores, following a successful trial earlier this year.
The retailer has partnered with VusionGroup, alongside Renovotec and HL Display, to implement the technology, which is designed to simplify store operations and free up staff time. The move will see more than 700,000 ESLs installed across its Express estate, replacing the need for manual price updates.
During a three-month pilot at Asda’s Oxford Road Express store in Manchester, colleagues were able to spend more time supporting customers, replenishing shelves and managing deliveries rather than updating paper labels. Each site will see around 2,800 labels introduced.
The digital labels can also display allergen information via QR codes alongside cost, weight and unit pricing, offering shoppers clearer product information at shelf-edge.
The rollout comes as Asda pushes ahead with its Express store expansion, with up to 20 new locations planned before the end of the year, starting with Castleford next week. Each new site will be fitted with ESLs from day one.
Joseph Sutton, Vice President Asda Express, foodservice and fuel, said the investment reflects the retailer’s commitment to making stores more efficient.
“By streamlining our in-store operations, we can free up our colleagues to focus on what they do best – serving our customers. With the first of 20 new Express sites set to open next, we’re excited to build on this momentum and bring Asda’s trusted value to even more communities,” he said.
Roy Horgan, CEO UK & Ireland at VusionGroup, added: “By combining ESLs with IoT innovation and data-rich insight, we are helping to transform the in-store experience for Asda customers and colleagues.”
Alongside digital upgrades, Asda has also been trialling a ‘Bake on the Shop Floor’ model at Express sites, installing ovens to bake pastries and other goods on-site to broaden its fresh food offer.