The Sainsbury's Ufirst app launches in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is a progressive queueing system that entirely functions virtually. The technology is developed to help customers stay safe and shop in a timely manner in Sainsbury store locations.
The UK retailer implements the system to manage the flow of customers and lineups to avoid the need to physically standing in queues. Consumers are able to monitor their spot in line from the safe distance in their cars, at locations nearby, or even from home. If customers do not have a phone to download the app, employees can manually add them to the virtual queue. In addition to this, Sainsbury's also launched the SmartShop Mobile Pay system to avoid the use of tills and to encourage contactless payments.
Image Credit: Sainsbury
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Virtual Queueing Systems
- The development of virtual queueing systems provide safe and convenient alternatives to physically standing in long lines at brick-and-mortar locations.
- Mobile Queue Management Apps
- The rise of mobile queue management apps that allow customers to queue virtually provides opportunities for retailers to improve customer experience and better manage foot traffic in-store.
- Contactless Payment Solutions
- Contactless payment solutions are becoming increasingly popular as more businesses seek to implement safe and secure payment options for customers during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Sectors Adopting This
- Retail
- Retailers can adopt virtual queueing systems and mobile queue management apps to enhance customer experience and navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Technology
- Advancements in technology can create opportunities for the development of innovative solutions such as virtual queueing systems and mobile queue management apps, particularly in the retail space.
- Payment Processing
- The rise in contactless payment solutions presents opportunities for companies in the payment processing industry to develop and market secure payment solutions to businesses looking to implement safe and efficient payment options.
