For decades, it has been the same catchphrase. When you arrive in your supermarket, you take a shopping cart, you fill it with foodstuffs, you go to the checkout, you take out your wallet, you store your shopping and basta.
In recent years, there have been some changes. Like the democratization of drives, home delivery or simply the multiplication of automatic funds to save time and simplify everyday life.
It is undeniable: consumer habits have radically evolved and the rise of digital technology redefines our shopping experience. Thus, traditional caddies, as they are known, could soon disappear to be replaced by connected carts. A rolling revolution?
Connected carts soon arrive in supermarkets
When Raymond Joseph brings the concept of Caddies of the United States to open the first hypermarket in 1963, it is a real revolution. For more than 70 years, the carts have remained faithful to themselves. But today there is new.
Little by little, a new generation of caddies appears on the market in order to improve the customer experience and optimize sales processes. In 2025, the Shopic company was a pioneer in the development of advanced technologies for these new kinds. In France, an Intermarché supermarket is trying this novelty in Provins, in Seine-et-Marne.
But what does a connected cart look like? As in classic caddies, with some essential additions … Thus, connected carts are equipped with a touch screen, a scante and two cameras that rely on “Computer Vision” technology. You therefore no longer even need to scan products manually since they are instantly identified by their brand, weight and price once you put them in your shopping cart. The purchasing process is necessarily accelerated, but that’s not all.
Indeed, the touch screen allows you to follow your expenses in real time, to see the offers and promotions applied as well as to consult your kitty. Currently, it is a crucial asset to manage your budget as well as possible. The touch screen can be used for advanced customization and enriched experience, by displaying targeted promotions, products on products or even recipes.
These connected carts also save time by simplifying the payment process. When the races are finished, it is not necessary to empty your shopping cart to pay. It is then enough to go to a dedicated terminal to obtain the invoice automatically. Customers even have the possibility of paying directly with their smartphone. It’s faster but it is also less stressful!
Inevitably, such changes require an adaptation time and a learning period. This is particularly the case for customers who do not master the digital tools perfectly. The brands must imperatively support customers to ensure a smooth transition. Logistical questions are also to be taken into account.
Finally, the arrival of these connected carts will inevitably impact the cashier posts. However, Elme may be the source of new professional opportunities. As in customer assistance or even in store technology management.
