Co-op is phasing out paper pricing tags in favour of electronic shelf labels (ESLs) across its entire 2,400-strong UK store estate, as part of a major tech upgrade designed to boost efficiency and sustainability. 

The convenience retailer has already installed the new system, supplied by retail tech firm VusionGroup, in around 340 stores and is now ramping up implementation at a rate of 40 stores per week.

It expects to reach 1,500 stores by the end of 2024, with full rollout scheduled for 2026.

Electronic shelf labels automatically update pricing and promotions in real time, and have previously been trialled by several UK grocers including Asda, Lidl, Tesco and Waitrose.

Retailers across the UK have cited benefits ranging from greater pricing accuracy, to improved in-store picking for online orders.

“With convenience at the heart of everything we do, Co-op is committed to continually exploring innovative technology that can improve how we operate,” said Co-op head of operations Steven Logue.

Photo: Co-op. The convenience giant is rolling out electronic shelves across its store estate.

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“The electronic labels have the potential to enhance product information and transparency, avoid paper waste, and make everyday tasks like picking online orders easier – improving ways of working, supporting our growth ambitions and enhancing the shopping experience for our members and customers.”

VusionGroup CEO UK & Ireland Roy Horgan added: “We are immensely proud of this strategic partnership. Co-op’s values align closely with our own, and this collaboration exemplifies how technology can foster sustainability and improve the in-store experience of customers and colleagues.

“Co-op’s rollout demonstrates its ongoing commitment to invest in physical stores which play a valuable role on UK high streets, making a positive impact on the communities it serves whilst enabling greater agility to react quicker to ever-changing market dynamics and customer needs”

The move aligns with the retailer’s broader focus on operational efficiency and digital transformation in the face of rising costs and labour challenges.

Elsewhere, in April, Southern Co-op adopted AI-powered technology, in a bid to reach its food waste reduction targets. The retailer teamed up with Retail Insight to use its data-driven food waste reduction solution, WasteInsight.