Currys connects with Solum and Vestcom for electronic shelf edge labelling roll-out in its UK&I stores

Currys is investing in the roll-out of electronic shelf edge labels (ESEL) in its stores across the UK and Ireland.

Delivered in partnership with ESEL solution supplier Solum and Vestcom for data integration and software, the move forms part of Currys’ push to support colleagues in their day-to-day roles, while making it easier for its customers to shop.

The new ESELs replace traditional paper price tags with dynamic digital displays, offering customers real-time pricing, clearer product information and easy-to-scan QR codes for more information.

Behind the scenes, a centralised system enables pricing accuracy and consistency across all channels. This is currently available in over 150 stores, with full roll-out expected by 13th November. The investment was inspired by Elkjop3 in the Nordics, which already uses ESEL technology.

Manual paper labelling had become a pain point for employees during busy trading periods. Store teams can now spend more time helping customers choose the technology that works best for them.  

Currys also says that customers are telling it the stores look and feel smarter and more navigable. The digital shelf labels have a 7–12 year battery life. They also will save millions of pieces of paper every year.

“Rolling out digital ticketing across our stores is more than a tech upgrade, it’s a commitment to our customers and colleagues. By delivering real-time pricing and clearer product information, we’re making shopping for customers simpler and smarter. And by removing the burden of manual labelling across the estate, we’re giving our store teams more time to do what they love: helping customers enjoy amazing technology.” says Lindsay Haselhurst, Chief Operating Officer, Currys

“We’re thrilled to partner with Currys, marking a significant step in expanding our presence in the UK’s premium electronics market. We believe in creating a sustainable tomorrow by connecting innovation to everyday life, a vision we proudly share with them,” says Mark Duckworth, Country Manager UK & Ireland at Solum.

“As a trusted solution provider with a strong track record in demanding markets, we bring advanced, reliable, and scalable Newton ESEL technology backed by responsive customer support. Together with Currys, we look forward to driving digital transformation and enhancing the retail experience across the UK and beyond.”

“We’re pleased to support Currys by enabling a hybrid shelf-edge strategy that best meets the needs of shoppers, colleagues and the business - integrating new technology where it is best served,” says Ned Peverley, Vice President and General Manager at Vestcom.

“The engine behind this seamless roll-out is our centralised platform which unifies pricing and promotion data across all shelf-edge endpoints, relieving the burden from stores teams to ensure accurate data is consistently displayed at shelf.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

ESELs will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards. which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.