Monday, January 14, 2008

Shopping Carts, Now With Advertising!


My first reaction to this device was "oh no, not more ads". At second glance though, I really like what this thing has to offer. Scanning each item as I put it into the cart and keeping a running total is really useful. Anyway, it should be pretty easy to just ignore the ads and get on with my shopping.

Via Yahoo News

"Microsoft Corp. is bringing digital advertising to the grocery cart. The software maker spent four years working with Plano, Texas-based MediaCart Holdings Inc. on a grocery cart-mounted console that helps shoppers find products in the store, then scan and pay for their items without waiting in the checkout line."


And a related story, the rise of digital coupons:

Supermarket chains are trying out paperless, or digital, coupons, to help the thrifty-minded save time while saving money. Shoppers load the online discounts onto their store loyalty cards, receiving the credit at the checkout.

Grocers see the innovation as a way to build customer loyalty, drawing consumers who are increasingly spending time online to their Web sites and ultimately, their stores. The move could increase coupon use by attracting shoppers who don't bother with paper coupons. It offers convenience for the companies in reducing handling, tallying and shipping of coupons, as well as cutting paper use.

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