Asda has unveiled click and collect pods to allow online customers to collect orders at a stand-alone temperature controlled unit.
The retailer said the move is part of Asda’s ambition to become the UK’s most convenient online supermarket.
Made using Dutch technology, the fully automated pods will be trialled in early 2015 and are a first for the UK, Asda said.
The UK’s second largest retailer has embarked on a five-year strategy to improve online shopping. In addition to the pods, Asda has also grown the number of click and collect points from 400 to 600 and expanded the number of same day click and collect services.
It is also merging its three shopping websites into two sections, to ‘mirror’ the customer’s experience of a weekly shop.
“In 2013 we set out a five year strategy to redefine value retailing – with a clear ambition to lead online,” said Asda CEO Andy Clarke.
“In what is still a challenging market, I am delighted that we are able to make an investment that will not only step on delivery of our strategy, but also bring new and convenient ways for our customers to shop with us.
“We’re also creating an online experience that logically fits with how our customers want to shop. Ultimately, we want to give more people access to the price, quality and style that we are famous for.”
Asda has previously trialled the first tube station collection points in London, as well as automated collection lockers at its Pudsey store in Leeds.
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