We visited an Amazon Fresh grocery store for the first time on our trip to Bellevue Washington. Here’s a look at our first-time experience.
“Just Walk Out” concept
Amazon Fresh is a “just walk out” store concept where you just grab the things you need and can walk out the store without waiting in line for a register.
To enter the shopping area, you need to first scan the QR code in your Amazon app to sign in. Alternatively, you can insert the credit card associated with your Amazon account. There is also the Amazon Go app which you can use.
There are tons of cameras and AI technology tracking you and identifying the items you put in your cart and take out.
The cart uses a combination of algorithms and sensors to identify items you put in the cart. When you exit the store, sensors automatically identify the cart, and your payment is processed using the credit card on your Amazon account.
What is sold at Amazon Fresh
Amazon Go carries many national brands and high-quality produce, meat, and seafood along with prepared foods made fresh in store. Prices seemed reasonable.
When you need help finding an item or have a quick grocery related question, such as food facts or wine-cheese pairings, simply ask Alexa at any of the blue Alexa kiosks located throughout the store.
Paying and leaving the store
When you are done shopping, you can just walk out and you will be automatically charged.
We had a look at our bill and it was all correct – no overcharging or undercharging. The system wasn’t fooled by us taking items and putting them back from being indecisive.
While the store is founded on the “just walk out” concept, there was still one traditional staffed checkout on site.
The entire experience sort of evokes feelings similar to that when you remove an item from the hotel room mini bar as well as “shoplifting.” But overall, we enjoyed the experience and would go back again.