BM Caterers has initiated a trial of an AI self-checkout system at two UK client locations, with possible broader deployment to follow in 2025.

The Deligo AI self-checkout system is currently being tested at the headquarters of a logistics company in Crewe and a law firm in London.

The system is designed to automatically recognise items without the need for barcode scanning.

The tech aims to streamline routine cashier duties, enabling staff to engage in more valuable customer service activities.

It is also expected to reduce waiting times and minimise errors in product recognition, commonly known as "shrinkage".

Customers place all their items on a tray simultaneously, where they are instantly identified and the total cost calculated.

The system's dual camera technology not only recognises packaged products but can also identify freshly prepared foods, such as the components of a full English cooked breakfast, whether served on a plate or in takeaway containers.

The technology is sophisticated enough to disregard non-food items on the tray, such as mobile phones or keys, and accurately detects items even when they are positioned close together.

BM Caterers plans to implement the Deligo AI self-checkout system across an additional 15 client sites by early 2025.

BM Caterers managing director Antony Prentice stated: “I have seen a couple of demos of the Deligo smart tills now and have to say I was massively impressed with how the tech has evolved since the very early days of AI tills.

“This trial gives us a fantastic opportunity to now see how the tills work in practice in busy environments and also how they are received by both our customers and team members alike.”