BENTONVILLE, Ark. -- Wal-Mart Stores here will finish rolling out to all supercenters this month scanning devices for customers to verify prices before checking out their orders.
Currently, 300 Wal-Mart stores have installed the units and all supercenters will have the systems by Nov. 30, according to Sharon Weber, Wal-Mart spokeswoman. All remaining stores will have the systems in place by March, she added, noting that each store typically puts in two to five of the units.
Customers who scan products can view item descriptions and prices displayed on a two-line computer screen. Because the screen can be read from distances of up to 30 feet, it can also be programmed to display store promotions when not in use by customers.
Wal-Mart is taking advantage of the system's portability, as the scanner can be moved to various areas based on seasonal displays, high-traffic areas or changing customer needs, Weber told SN. The system is available in either wired or wireless models and can be mounted to walls and highbeam poles.
The scanner, provided by Telxon, Akron, Ohio, integrates with the point-of-sale system, so prices displayed on the screen will match prices scanned at the front end. NCR, Dayton, Ohio, developed the packaging, scanning and display technology.
Another major retailer reportedly implementing the system is Meijer, Grand Rapids, Mich. Meijer's first installation is planned for later this year, or early next quarter, according to a source familiar with the situation. Meijer declined comment.
