The world's largest online retailer has signalled its intent to completely take over the high-street with its Seattle store
ADVERTISEMENTThe internet shopping giant Amazon is taking its first major step towards real-life retail by opening a checkout-free grocery store.
The Seattle shop. known as Amazon Go, relies on cameras and sensors to track what customers remove from shelves, and what they put back.
With no cash tills or checkout lines, shoppers use a smartphone app when entering and pay with their pre-registered credit cards on their exit.
Teething troubles
Over the past year only Amazon staff have been able to use the facility, but the open door to the general public will certainly give traditional stores food for thought.
However during the trial period, children caused havoc by moving items to incorrect places.
It comes after Amazon bought the high-end US supermarket chain Whole Foods Market last year for some 12-billion euros.