Co-op Supermarkets to Replace Paper Price Tags with Digital Ones

By Netvora Tech News

As British supermarket chain Co-op continues to recover from a recent ransomware attack, the company has announced plans to replace its traditional paper price tags with digital ones. This technology is expected to be rolled out in approximately 1,500 stores by the end of the year, with the goal of having all 2,400 Co-op stores equipped with digital price tags by the end of next year.

What Can Digital Price Tags Do?

According to VusionGroup, the company behind the technology, digital price tags can display a wide range of information, including allergen information and nutritional values. This can be a significant improvement over traditional paper price tags, which can be difficult to read and often lack important details.

Benefits and Concerns

While digital price tags can provide numerous benefits, including the ability to communicate special offers and savings to customers, some critics have expressed concerns that the technology could lead to higher prices for consumers. VusionGroup, however, argues that the digital price tags will also enable dynamic pricing, which allows retailers to adjust prices in real-time.

Additionally, the company claims that digital price tags will allow for more efficient communication of deals and promotions to loyalty program members, which could lead to increased customer engagement and loyalty.

Recovery from Ransomware Attack

Co-op's decision to roll out digital price tags comes as the company is still recovering from a recent ransomware attack that has left its stores with empty shelves. The attackers claim to have stolen data from 20 million people, although Co-op has not confirmed this number.

As the company works to restore its operations, the introduction of digital price tags could be a welcome solution for both customers and employees. The technology has the potential to streamline operations, improve customer experience, and reduce costs for the retailer.

Conclusion

Co-op's decision to adopt digital price tags is a significant step in the company's digital transformation journey. While there may be initial concerns about the impact on prices, the technology has the potential to provide numerous benefits for both the retailer and its customers.

Improved customer experience through real-time information and promotions
Increased efficiency and cost savings through digital communication
Potential for dynamic pricing and improved price transparency

As Co-op continues to recover from the ransomware attack, the introduction of digital price tags could be a key step in the company's path forward.