Lidl is rolling out a new self-scanning service across its Finnish stores. The Scan & Go feature within the Lidl app allows customers to scan product barcodes with their smartphones and pack items directly into their bags. Payment can be completed at a self-checkout, a regular checkout, or directly through the app if a payment card is registered.
The pilot for this service began in November at five stores in Espoo, a key city in Finland's technology sector. The service expands to 25 stores today, starting with locations in Tampere, Espoo-Laajalahti, and Kirkkonummi-Munkinmäki. This expansion taps into Finland's high smartphone penetration and tech-savvy consumer base.
Meri Aalto, Lidl's Customer Director, explained the rationale in a statement. She said the feature serves different customer groups. Someone making a small purchase can scan a few items and leave quickly via self-checkout. A larger family doing weekly shopping can collect items at their own pace, packing them directly into the cart and avoiding unpacking at the register.
To use the service, customers scan a QR code at the store entrance or use GPS location. They then scan barcodes on packaged goods and sale items. For weighted products like fruits and vegetables, new scales have been installed. The scale recognizes the product and displays a barcode for the customer to scan. The app automatically applies active Lidl Plus coupons and benefits.
There is one notable restriction. Age-restricted products like alcohol can be scanned, but payment must be made at a manned checkout for age verification. This complies with Finland's strict alcohol retail laws, which are more restrictive than in many other European countries.
This move is part of a broader retail technology trend in the Nordic region. Finnish companies like Nokia have long been at the forefront of telecommunications, and Helsinki startups often drive digital innovation. Lidl's investment in this system shows how traditional retail is adapting to the expectations set by the Finnish technology sector. The goal is clear: reduce queue times and improve the customer experience through digital tools.
The real test will be adoption rates. Finnish consumers are accustomed to efficiency but may need time to trust a fully self-service model for larger shops. The success of this rollout could influence other major retailers in the Helsinki region and beyond, potentially creating more demand for local tech solutions in logistics and point-of-sale systems. For now, Lidl is betting that the convenience will win over shoppers in Espoo, Tampere, and across the country.