By Riad Beladi | Edited by James Taylor
Lidl GB is poised to redefine the in-store experience with the launch of its new digital self-scan system, aimed at slashing checkout waiting times—an issue that has long tested shopper patience. According to retail analysts, this bold move could result in a 25% increase in customer footfall, particularly among tech-savvy and time-conscious consumers.
The new feature, integrated directly into the Lidl Plus loyalty app, allows customers to scan products with their mobile phones as they shop, monitor their spending in real time, and head directly to a payment terminal without unloading their baskets. The trial will commence in September across four UK stores: Epsom, Kingston, Airdrie and Llanishen.
Faster, Smarter, More Convenient
This step aligns Lidl with industry leaders like Tesco and Sainsbury’s, who have already embraced scan-as-you-shop technology. However, Lidl’s solution is fully embedded in its existing loyalty app, meaning there’s no need for separate handsets or third-party tools. This streamlined approach is likely to attract both existing customers and new shoppers looking for frictionless experiences.
“By addressing one of the most frustrating parts of grocery shopping—long queues—Lidl is doing more than just innovating,” said Riad Beladi, a senior analyst at International Supermarket News. “They’re inviting an entire demographic of time-conscious customers back into stores.”
More Than Just Speed
The technology will be reinforced by camera-based theft detection, a non-intrusive system designed to monitor scanning accuracy without using facial recognition. According to Lidl, this security enhancement is about accountability, not surveillance, and staff will always remain in control of any flagged issues.
By combining ease of checkout with improved loss prevention, Lidl is addressing two major pain points in modern retail—speed and security—in one coordinated strategy.
Why This Could Boost Footfall by 25%
Retail studies show that up to 30% of shoppers abandon purchases due to long queues. Lidl’s move directly targets this attrition rate. Early projections suggest that stores implementing this system could see footfall increase by 20–25%, especially during peak hours and lunch-time visits.
“This is not just a digital upgrade,” Beladi added. “It’s a footfall magnet.”
Other retailers have reported measurable improvements after implementing similar systems, but Lidl’s all-in-one platform could set a new standard for budget grocers. In a post-COVID retail landscape where convenience often trumps loyalty, such upgrades are essential for capturing market share.
The Future of Shopping at Lidl
If the initial trial is successful, Lidl plans a phased rollout across its 980+ UK stores throughout 2026. The discounter is also exploring ways to integrate personalised offers and AI-assisted promotions within the same app environment.
With Lidl consistently ranked among the UK’s fastest-growing supermarket chains, this innovation could reinforce its reputation for offering more while charging less—not just in price, but in time saved.
ISN Reveal: If Lidl’s strategy delivers on its promise, it could mark the beginning of a wider transformation in discount retail. For customers, faster checkout isn’t just a convenience—it’s a reason to return.