Asda launches 3,000 electronic shelf labels in Manchester c-store
Asda has launched a new trial of electronic shelf-edge labels (ESLs) at its Express store in Manchester city centre.
The 12-week experiment, which began this week, aims to streamline pricing updates and improve operational efficiency.
The Oxford Road store, chosen for its high footfall, now has 3,000 ESLs across various product categories, with the technology allowing staff to update prices quickly, with changes reflected on shelves in as little as 15 seconds.
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Asda Express managing director Chris Walker said: “We’re delighted to launch a new trial of electronic shelf edge labels, as we continue to invest in enhancing our instore processes.
“This ‘test and learn’ trial will not only help to simplify operations for colleagues in the store, but it will also provide us with valuable learnings that will shape future technology rollouts into stores. We look forward to hearing feedback from customers and colleagues on the trial.”
This trial marks Asda’s return to ESL technology after concluding a larger-scale test at its Stevenage superstore last year.
The supermarket chain is partnering with Vusion Group for this new initiative, joining other major retailers such as M&S, Morrisons and Budgens which have also worked with the technology provider.
It comes as ESLs are gaining traction in the UK retail sector, particularly among convenience and discount stores.
They offer several advantages to retailers, including centralised price management, reduced need for manual label updates and potential for displaying additional product information.
2 Comments. Leave new
Unfortunately also to hike prices for good in demand and for different times of the year and to reduce staff levels further.
Prices will go up before you even get to the till.