Lidl announces ‘major transformation’ to its price display to cut back on waste
Lidl is set to introduce electronic shelf labels into its stores
PA
Lidl has introduced a “major transformation” to its stores across the UK as it switches from paper pricing tags to electronic shelf labels, cutting back on ink and paper waste.
The update follows a successful trial in over 35 stores, including Epsom and Tooting.
It will aim to cut down on carbon emissions while helping bolster store operations “without impacting the experience of shoppers”, the retailer reported.
The discounter scheme plans to gradually introduce electronic shelf labels in various sections and all discounter stores, with the full rollout set to come into effect by the end of the year.
The scheme follows a successful trial in more than 35 stores
LIDL
Shoppers will see a slightly different display of prices when they shop, but the retailer claims two-thirds of shoppers said they didn’t notice the change, reinforcing the benefit of introducing the update.
Not only will the change drastically minimise the use of ink, but it will also help the efficiency of employees.
The technology will also benefit colleagues, who can spend less time updating and updating paper price tags.
This should allow them to allocate more time to helping customers and restock shelves.
Isaac Ekpenyong, director of sales organisation at Lidl GB commented: “As a discounter, sustainability and efficiency run deep in our DNA.
“Making changes to how we operate, no matter how big or small, allows us to enhance the overall experience for those shopping with us.
“In this particular case, we’re empowering colleagues by freeing up more of their time to dedicate tasks that directly benefit our customers.
“But our tradition of Electronic Shelf Labels is more than that; it is another step we are taking to reduce our impact on the environment by curbing paper and ink consumption.
LATEST DEVELOPMENT
The update means employees will spend less time updating their labels
GETTY
It comes as the Southern Co-Op, rolled out over half a million electronic shelf labels across its entire estate in the UK last August.
Southern Co-op’s Retail Proposition Manager said last year: “The technology has been wholeheartedly embraced by our colleagues who often found the task of replacing the paper labels tedious.”
The retailer claimed the scheme could help save £220k annually in paper and printing fees.
Aldi also rolled out the system across its estate in 2023, after a trial that started in 2021 proved overwhelmingly positive.