Tesco has announced the addition of a barcode scanning feature to its iPhone App, a first for the supermarket industry. The UK's largest retailer launched the Groceries app in September, allowing customers to order shopping through their existing accounts using their Apple devices.
This latest feature now enables users to scan the barcodes of products via the phone's camera, which are then automatically added to their weekly online order.
Laura Wade-Gery, Tesco.com's Chief Executive and a winner at the recent ESM European Businesswomen of the Year awards, said “We're always looking for ways to make life easier for customers and for busy mums in particular. The barcode scanner will make online ordering much quicker for those that have an iPhone. Customers can simply scan the barcode of grocery products stocked by Tesco whilst on the go and add them into their online shopping basket. This is the perfect solution for iPhone lovers that are always forgetting to add items to their shopping list or haven't the time to even write one.”
Tesco have released several other applications for the iPhone. The Clubcard App is a virtual version of the actual clubcard which can be used in its place at checkouts if forgotten by customers. Others include a Store Finder App and a Wine App. (27 Oct)© 2010 - ESM: European Supermarket Magazine