Asda introduces a trial of electronic shelf-edge labels at Manchester Express store, aiming to boost efficiency.
- The 12-week trial sees 3,000 ESLs implemented to enhance operational processes.
- ESLs enable rapid price updates, reducing the time to reflect changes to just 15 seconds.
- This initiative aligns with Asda’s strategy to learn and innovate following previous ESL tests.
- Partnering with Vusion Group, Asda joins retailers like M&S in adopting ESL technology.
Asda has embarked on a promising initiative, introducing a trial of electronic shelf-edge labels (ESLs) at its Express store located in Manchester city center. This 12-week trial aims to streamline and enhance pricing update processes, providing a more efficient way of handling inventory.
The Oxford Road store, selected for its considerable foot traffic, now hosts 3,000 ESLs across various product categories. These advanced labels empower store staff to enact price changes swiftly, with updates visibly taking effect on shelves in as little as 15 seconds. This efficiency not only simplifies store operations but also enhances the overall shopping experience for customers.
Asda’s managing director, Chris Walker, expressed enthusiasm about the trial, emphasizing its role in improving in-store processes. He stated, “We’re delighted to launch a new trial of electronic shelf edge labels, as we continue to invest in enhancing our in-store 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.”
This trial marks Asda’s renewed interest in ESL technology, following a larger-scale test conducted at its Stevenage superstore the previous year. Asda’s collaboration with Vusion Group for this endeavor positions the supermarket alongside other major retailers, such as M&S and Morrisons, who have also experimented with this technology.
Electronic shelf labels are gaining traction within the UK retail sector, particularly among convenience and discount store segments. The technology offers significant advantages, including centralized price management and a reduced requirement for manual label updates, and the potential to display additional product information, thereby improving operational efficiency and customer engagement.
Asda’s Manchester ESL trial is a forward-thinking initiative that could transform retail operations.
