CHICAGO—bp has partnered with Grabango to integrate checkout-free technology into Amoco and ampm stores, according to a news release. bp will offer Grabango's checkout-free solution at 10 locations throughout the country, including seven ampm stations in Northern California and three Amoco locations in Western Pennsylvania. Grabango-powered ampm and Amoco stores will be live to shoppers in mid-2022.
Grabango is free and allows shoppers to skip the checkout line. There are no special shelves, carts, baskets or turnstiles required to enter or shop. To get started, shoppers download the free Grabango app and shop as they normally would. The Grabango system keeps a running tally of items picked up so there's no need to scan each one on the way out. Payment is automatic and contactless.
"We are always looking for innovative solutions that bring a more seamless experience to our customers," said Lisa Blalock, vice president of marketing, mobility & convenience Americas for bp. "We believe this technology will positively change the scale of retail and create a wave reaction in the marketplace. Today it's just our first 10 locations. Tomorrow, there is potential to bring Grabango's technology to our entire network."
Will Glaser, CEO of Grabango, said "This is a unique opportunity to leverage our offering to usher in the future of retail for bp. By working together, we will deploy our largest rollout ever, spanning multiple brands and regions. We know shoppers will appreciate the option of a more streamlined checkout at Amoco and ampm locations where Grabango technology is available."
The new convenience store technology integration comes on the heels of bp acquiring Thorntons. According to bp, Thorntons' customer-focused business will help enhance innovative offers including high-quality food, loyalty programs and next generation mobility solutions.
This week, bp announced that it acquired AMPLY Power, an electric vehicle charging and energy management provider for fleets that operate trucks, transit and school buses, vans and light-duty vehicles.
Other convenience retailers are working to remove friction from the checkout experience. Circle K partnered with Standard AI, a checkout technology company, to install an AI-powered checkout-free system in one of its stores in Tempe, Arizona. Choice convenience stores in Denver offer self-checkout, walkout technology and an app, which all sync and communicate with each other.
NACS offers a free webinar on self-checkout innovations at c-stores. Pre- and post-pay fuel transactions, loyalty, cash payments and age verification are also discussed.