Waitrose has passed a significant milestone in its digital transformation programme, with more than 200 stores now fully equipped with electronic shelf labels (ESLs) supplied by SOLUM. The rollout represents one of the UK’s largest deployments of digital shelf-edge technology and demonstrates the retailer’s commitment to improving store operations and the customer shopping experience.
The John Lewis Partnership-owned supermarket selected SOLUM’s Newton Pro ESL platform following extensive evaluation. The technology was chosen for its premium design, durability, reliability and ability to meet the demanding requirements of modern food retailing. The digital labels allow prices and product information to be updated instantly from a central system, replacing the time-consuming process of changing thousands of paper labels by hand.
For Waitrose, the benefits extend well beyond operational efficiency. Real-time price updates improve pricing accuracy, reduce the risk of shelf-to-checkout discrepancies and enable store teams to spend more time assisting customers instead of carrying out routine administrative tasks. Digital shelf labels also support promotional campaigns, inventory management and future connected-store initiatives, making them an increasingly important part of supermarket technology strategies.
SOLUM has established itself as one of the world’s leading suppliers of electronic shelf label technology, serving retailers across Europe, North America and Asia. Its solutions are recognised for their reliability, long battery life, advanced wireless communication and seamless integration with retail management systems. As more supermarket groups accelerate their digital transformation strategies, SOLUM continues to strengthen its position as a trusted technology partner for major international retailers.
The Waitrose deployment reflects a wider trend across the grocery industry. Faced with rising labour costs, increasing pricing complexity and growing customer expectations, retailers are investing in ESL technology to improve efficiency while ensuring accurate pricing and faster in-store execution.
With more than 200 stores already operating with SOLUM’s electronic shelf labels and further installations planned, Waitrose is reinforcing its position as one of the UK’s most technologically advanced supermarket chains. The partnership demonstrates how innovative digital solutions are helping retailers modernise their stores while delivering greater efficiency and an improved shopping experience.