The Kroger self-checkout solution uses AI and computer vision technology.

The Kroger Co (NYSE: KR), America’s biggest grocery retailer, is implementing a self-checkout solution developed using Everseen’s Visual AI. This technology leverages high-resolution cameras and a combination of computer vision and AI capabilities developed on Nvidia’s (NASDAQ: NVDA) Accelerated Computing AI Platform. (CSA)

Kroger has launched the AI-based self-checkout solution at 1,700 stores, and claims that the system has resulted in fewer errors. Furthermore, more than 75% of self-checkout errors were rectified without employees having to intervene.

The payoffs from the AI-enabled self-checkouts include lower retail shrink and insight into stocks leaving the stores. That leads to quicker replenishment of inventory leading to higher on-shelf availability, and therefore better sales.

How it works

Kroger uses Lenovo (HKG: 0992) Edge AI servers equipped with Nvidia GPUs each of which can handle unstructured data from up to 20 high-resolution cameras in real time. The company’s AI analyzes data sent from the Visual AI platform at self-checkouts for unusual activity.

The system will automatically flag an error if a shopper fails to properly scan an item, and prompt them to re-scan. If the shopper is unable to solve the issue, the system will send a mobile-based message to a store associate to assist the shopper.

“The Lenovo Edge AI servers and Everseen’s Visual AI platform fit in seamlessly with our existing self-checkout systems, and make the checkout process more robust, in a way that’s non-disruptive for our customers,” said Chris McCarrick, senior manager of asset protection solutions and technology, Kroger, to CSA, who also called it a “win-win situation” that made the job of store associates a lot easier.

Related Story: Japanese Companies Retail AI And Toshiba Partner To Revamp The Shopping Experience

Image credit: Flickr