AI-Enabled Shopping Carts Linked to Higher Grocery Spending in Study

Bayes Business School researchers analyzed shopping behavior at a well-known German supermarket chain during March 2025, covering more than 12,000 individual trips. Those who engaged with smart carts equipped with screen handles spent about 32% more on average, purchased 25% more items and stayed in the store 23% longer than shoppers using conventional carts. The study emphasizes that the association does not establish that the technology itself drives higher spend, as users may already have larger shopping lists.

Retailers are expanding the technology in the United States, with Instacart's Caper carts operating in over 100 cities and Amazon's Dash Cart slated for broader rollout at Whole Foods. The carts combine sensors, cameras and location tracking to offer personalized recommendations and checkout-free payment, turning the cart into a moving advertising platform. Experts advise shoppers to rely on pre-made lists and monitor the cart's running total to avoid unintended price increases.