Amazon creates cashier-less tech for fashion retailers

Global online retailer, Amazon, has developed a new version of its cashierless shopping technology for fashion stores to expand the system beyond grocery stores.

Last week, Amazon announced the latest iteration of its Just Walk Out technology, which uses radio frequency identification (RFID) tags to track apparel.

Prior to the update, the retail giant's system relied on cameras and shelf sensors to determine customer's purchases. Then, the technology automatically charges a swiped credit card upon exiting the store. However, system errors occur when goods are similar in weight and appearance.

Now, RFID tags are affixed to individual items and monitored in-store. The technology has been around for decades and is primarily used to track inventory.  Amazon acknowledged that Avery Dennison Corp. provided the RFID equipment.

The company has rolled out the 'Just Walk Out' technology at a handful of Fresh grocery outlets, as well as stores operated by licensees. However, it is unclear how many fashion retailers will adopt the new technology for fear of relying on a competitor.

This follows the news that Amazon's sales soared, thanks to a boost from international markets. It reported an 11% increase in net sales to £105 billion ($134.4 billion) for the second quarter ending 30 June 2023.