UK roundup: latest retailer technology investments

In this instalment, our UK analysts offer their take on some of the market’s latest developments and initiatives. Here’s what you need to know about:

• Tesco pilots shopping list functionality on self-scan handsets 

• Tesco and FSEW launch first fully electric truck lane in Wales

• Morrisons to begin trial of AI-powered shopping trolleys

• Aldi rolls out In-Post lockers across estate

• Waitrose appoints new Managing Director

Tesco pilots shopping list functionality on self-scan handsets 

Tesco has introduced a trial of a shopping list function on its scan-as-you-shop (SAYS) handsets in its Extra store in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. The new function enables shoppers to create a shopping list on the Tesco app. When shoppers release a SAYS handset with their Tesco Clubcard, the list appears on the handset and shoppers can then opt to display the list in the order it was created or in aisle order, meaning that in-store navigation is optimised. Items are ticked off as they are scanned and shoppers are then prompted at checkout if they have forgotten any items.

Retail futures senior partner Bryan Roberts’ view: This is a great shopper-centric innovation from Tesco, genuinely improving the shopping experience. We have previously covered similar initiatives from the likes of ICA in Sweden but this nonetheless marks a significant step forward in terms of customer experience in the UK grocery market. Presumably a retail media opportunity in the fulness of time too.   

Tesco and FSEW launch first fully electric truck lane in Wales

Tesco and FSEW have unveiled a fully electric truck lane linking their supplier, WEPA’s Maestag site and Tesco’s Magor distribution centre in Wales. Operating four trucks, the service will provide 85,680 emission-free miles per year, cutting 169 tonnes of CO2 annually. Powered by charging infrastructure at FSEW’s South Wales site, trucks can run for 100 miles per charge. A trial for a second fully electric route has also begun, between Maestag and Lichfield.

Supply Chain Analyst, Soline Duriez’s view: Building on the 2022 pilot which involved the deployment of two electric HGVs between Cardiff and Magor, this new fully electric truck lane represents clear scaling of Tesco’s EV freight operations. This project marks a significant step toward supply chain decarbonisation and strengthens Tesco’s path to net zero by 2035.

Morrisons to begin trial of AI-powered shopping trolleys

Morrisons is partnering with US grocery technology company, Instacart, to trial its AI-powered Caper Cart shopping trolleys. The retailer will begin trials at a single store in early 2026. Caper Carts allow shoppers to scan items as they shop and feature interactive screens, built-in scales and AI-powered sensors to guide shoppers through the scanning and placement process. Shoppers are able to pay at store’s self-checkout tills via a scannable barcode.

Senior Insight Analyst, Alex Rowberry’s view: the announcement by Morrisons follows a similar development at Waitrose which began trials of its own AI-powered shopping trolleys last week. It signals a wider move by retailers to provide shoppers with a quicker and more efficient shopping process, as well as presenting further opportunities for retail media placement.

Aldi rolls out In-Post lockers across estate

Following a 12-week trial in March 2024, Aldi has significantly expanded its parcel locker service. As of September 2025, the service has been implemented in over 500 Aldi stores across the UK, planning to reach almost 600 by the end of the year, which represents more than half of its total estate. This substantial expansion offers customers a convenient way to pick up or drop off parcels while doing their weekly shop.

Insight Analyst, Michela Pearson’s view: Aldi is continuing to give shoppers more reasons to visit its stores, and with the ongoing growth of online, the lockers will likely be a success. Aldi is also trialling new features to improve customer engagement in its existing app in Scotland.

Waitrose appoints new Managing Director

John Lewis Partnership has appointed Tom Denyard, an executive from Tesco, as the new Managing Director for Waitrose. He is scheduled to join the partnership in January, taking over from James Bailey. The brand's current Retail Director, Tina Mitchell, will serve as interim Managing Director until Denyard begins his role. John Lewis Partnership Chairman, Jason Tarry, expressed his confidence in the new appointment, stating that Denyard's mix of brand, customer, commercial, and operational experience makes him the ideal candidate to lead the business forward.

Insight Manager, Sneha Haria’s view: This is a good time for Denyard to join the business as Waitrose sales have grown faster than its supermarket peers for a fourth month running, according to NIQ Scantrack. This growth is boosted by revamped stores and improved customer service. By bringing in new expertise, Waitrose is well-positioned to continue to prosper, providing customers with exceptional quality and service in a competitive market.

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