Aldi introduces “automated traffic light system” nationwide as it prepares for long-term social distancing measures

Aldi is launching a new “automated traffic light system” across its entire UK store estate to limit the number of shoppers allowed instore at any one time.

Following a successful trial of the technology, Aldi will roll the system out nationwide starting this week as it becomes the latest retailer to prepare to implement social distancing long after lockdown is lifted.

Each individual store will have a specific number of customers it can allow in the store at any one time to enable two-metre social distancing.

The traffic light system will track customers going in or out of the store and inform queuing customers when they can safely enter.

NHS workers will still get priority, and customers will be asked to allow them to the front of the queue when necessary.

READ MORE: Asda launches ‘virtual queuing’ system as it prepares for social distancing to last “for the rest of the year”

“The protection and safety of our customers and employees is our top priority and this new system is an accurate and effective way to allow us to control customer numbers in stores,” Aldi’s communications director Richard Thornton said.

“The system’s trial was well received by our customers and we will be gradually rolling this new social distancing measure out nationwide from this week.”

This comes after rival supermarket Asda announced plans to rollout a virtual queuing system allowing customers to remain in their cars while waiting to enter the store.

It was announced amid wider plans to implement social distancing measures long-term, stating that it expected these measures to be in place “for the rest of the year”.

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2 Comments. Leave new

  • Don’t go in supermarkets anymore….shop local

    Reply
  • Ms. Lightsword
    October 5, 2020 9:36 am

    My local grocery store is useless at maintaining social distancing. I am switching to Aldi which has established effective measures to keep shoppers safe.

    Reply

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