Autonomous retail is just getting started as Amazon Fresh stores experiment gets binned in the UK

For some, the closure of Just Walk Out technology powered stores in the UK is a signal that autonomous store solutions have failed. But for Trigo’s Oliver Baggaley, it’s been the perfect reminder that success in retail depends on far more than just the tech.

In a LinkedIn post, Baggaley, who recently joined Trigo as Director of Autonomous Stores Success, having previously served as Director Global Warehouse Automation at Ahold Delhaize, said: “In just a few weeks, two things have stood out to me: the value goes far beyond a seamless checkout. Self-checkout showed us how labour savings can justify new solutions.”

“But a fully digitised store can do much more: predictive out-of-stocks, live planograms, smarter labour planning, and rich customer behaviour insights (what people consider but don’t buy, how they move through the store). These create not only efficiencies, but also new revenue opportunities for retailers and CPGs alike.”

Also, there’s no one size fits all approach. Retail isn’t monolithic. Different formats and propositions create very different conditions for autonomy.

“Smaller stores, curated assortments, and predictable customer flows are far more conducive today than hypermarkets with sprawling ranges, dense layouts, and high promotion intensity. Some models will adopt autonomy faster; others will follow in time,” said Baggaley.

“That’s what excites me about Trigo’s work: navigating these complexities with retailers to unlock value in ways that fit their unique strategies. The future of food retail won’t be defined by a single player or approach. It will come from collaboration between retailers, technology partners, and CPGs, solving challenges together while keeping the customer at the centre.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

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

The awards. which are now closed for entries with our finalists and shortlists being announced last week, 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.