
You encounter asda electronic shelf labels every time you shop at asda. These digital price tags, known as ESL Price Tag and ESL Gateway AP, let you see accurate prices instantly. Electronic Shelf Labels have transformed Esl Retail by increasing automation and efficiency. Over the past five years, UK supermarkets have rapidly adopted electronic shelf edge labels, with 72% now using them. This shift ensures you receive up-to-date information and helps staff manage products more efficiently.
ASDA Electronic Shelf Labels Explained

What Are Electronic Shelf Edge Labels?
You see electronic shelf edge labels as digital price tags on store shelves. These labels use E-ink technology and wireless communication to connect with a central system. Unlike traditional paper labels, electronic shelf labels update prices, promotions, and product details in real time. You benefit from accurate pricing and extra product information, such as QR codes or NFC links for loyalty programs. The technology also supports dynamic pricing, allowing rapid adjustments based on demand or inventory. This system reduces paper waste, making it a sustainable choice for asda.
Key Features of ASDA Electronic Shelf Labels
You notice several important features when you shop with asda electronic shelf labels:
- Digital screens display cost, weight, and unit price, just like paper tags.
- Staff update all labels centrally, ensuring information stays current.
- Price changes happen in minutes, not days, saving time and reducing errors.
- Labels help staff pick products faster for online orders.
- QR codes on labels provide nutritional details and other product information.
- Asda partnered with Vusion Group to install thousands of digital screens in a Manchester store, aiming to improve store processes and learn from the trial.
Tip: You can scan QR codes on electronic shelf labels to access more product details instantly.
Why ASDA Is Using Electronic Shelf Labels
You experience smoother shopping because asda invests in electronic shelf labels to boost operational efficiency. Staff locate items faster, which speeds up home shopping order dispatch. Clearer digital labels enhance your in-store experience and provide extra information. The system supports dynamic pricing and labor efficiency, aligning with asda’s goals. The return on investment for electronic shelf labels can be as short as nine months, making them financially attractive. Asda’s adoption follows a broader retail trend, with other major supermarkets exploring similar technology. Lower technology costs and rising labor expenses make this investment increasingly viable.
How ASDA Electronic Shelf Labels Work
Technology and Integration with Store Systems
You interact with the latest technology every time you shop at ASDA. The electronic shelf edge labels connect directly to ASDA’s digital ecosystem. ASDA works with technology partners Hark and SeeChange to create a seamless experience. Hark’s cloud-based platform collects real-time data from in-store sensors, including electronic shelf labels. This platform integrates with other store systems, such as self-checkouts, to provide a unified view of stock and pricing. You benefit from this integration because it enables rapid price changes and accurate stock information. The system also monitors customer behavior, which helps ASDA improve store layouts and product placement.
Real-Time Price Updates and Automation
You see price changes happen almost instantly. During a 12-week trial at an ASDA Express store, staff updated 3,000 electronic shelf labels in as little as 15 seconds. This speed means you always see the correct price, even during busy promotions or sales. Automation reduces manual work for staff and lowers the risk of pricing errors. You get a more reliable shopping experience, and staff can focus on helping you instead of changing paper tags.
Note: Real-time updates ensure you never miss out on the latest deals or accurate pricing.
Collaboration with Vusion Group
You notice the impact of ASDA’s partnership with Vusion Group when you shop in stores with digital price tags. Vusion Group supplies the hardware and software for ASDA electronic shelf labels. This collaboration allows ASDA to roll out thousands of digital screens efficiently. You benefit from clear, easy-to-read labels and access to extra product information through QR codes. The partnership supports ASDA’s goal to modernize stores and deliver a better experience for both customers and staff.
Benefits of Electronic Shelf Labels for Customers and Staff

Improved Price Accuracy and Transparency
You benefit from electronic shelf labels because they deliver real-time price updates and reduce manual errors. This technology ensures you always see the correct price on the shelf, which builds trust and confidence in your purchases. The system supports dynamic pricing, so you can take advantage of flash sales or discounts on perishable goods, helping you save money and reducing food waste.
- You receive transparent information, not just about price, but also about nutritional details, stock availability, and promotional offers.
- You can access extra details through NFC, QR codes, or Bluetooth, making your decision-making process easier.
- The labels support multilingual displays, so you can shop comfortably if English is not your first language.
- You notice a reduction in paper waste, which shows asda’s commitment to sustainability.
- Real-time inventory alerts keep you informed about stock levels, so you know if a product is available before you reach for it.
Tip: Trust the price you see on the shelf—electronic shelf labels keep information accurate and up to date.
Enhanced Shopping Experience at ASDA
You enjoy a smoother shopping experience because electronic shelf labels automate price updates. This automation increases pricing accuracy and efficiency, so you spend less time searching for the right price or asking staff for help. When you scan QR codes or barcodes on the labels, you can access more product information, which bridges the gap between online and in-store shopping.
ASDA plans to add allergen information and LED indicators to these labels. These features will help you and home shopping pickers find items quickly, making your shopping experience even more convenient. The combination of accurate pricing, easy access to information, and future enhancements creates a more enjoyable and efficient shopping experience every time you visit the store.
Operational Efficiency for Store Staff
You see the benefits of electronic shelf labels reflected in the way staff work.
- Staff can update prices across the store in as little as 15 seconds, which means you always see the latest deals and promotions.
- The technology reduces manual labor, freeing up staff to focus on helping you and improving your shopping experience.
- ASDA’s trial in Manchester involved 3,000 electronic shelf labels and aimed to streamline in-store processes.
- Staff save about 2 to 3 hours each day per store, thanks to automation.
- Pricing errors have dropped by 95%, and up to 90% of pricing decisions now happen automatically.
Note: When staff spend less time on manual tasks, they can dedicate more attention to customer service and store organization.
Environmental and Sustainability Advantages
You make a positive impact on the environment every time you shop at ASDA stores with electronic shelf labels. These digital price tags replace traditional paper labels, which generate around 120,000 tonnes of waste each year and contribute to CO2 emissions. You help reduce this waste because electronic shelf labels do not require constant reprinting for price changes. Instead, you see instant updates on the shelves, which lowers the need for manual labor and cuts down on errors.
- Electronic shelf labels connect to a central hub, allowing real-time updates. You notice price changes happen in minutes, not days, which improves efficiency and reduces unnecessary waste.
- The technology uses long-lasting batteries that operate for five to ten years. You support sustainability because these batteries consume less energy than the frequent replacement and disposal of paper labels.
- You benefit from labels made with recyclable parts. Their long lifespan means fewer resources go into manufacturing and disposal, which helps prevent deforestation and lowers the carbon footprint.
- Advanced electronic shelf labels include shelf-life management features. You see stores track expiry dates of perishable goods more accurately, which helps reduce food waste by enabling timely sales before spoilage.
Note: By choosing stores with electronic shelf labels, you support greener retail operations and help ASDA optimize resources for a more sustainable future.
You experience a cleaner, more efficient shopping environment. Electronic shelf labels at ASDA demonstrate a commitment to sustainability by reducing paper waste, lowering energy consumption, and minimizing food spoilage. Your choices contribute to a retail system that values both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Results and Feedback from ASDA’s Electronic Shelf Edge Labels Trial
Customer Reactions and Insights
You notice the impact of the trial as soon as you enter the Manchester Oxford Road store. ASDA installed 3,000 electronic shelf edge labels across multiple product categories, including frozen, fresh, bakery, toiletries, and alcohol. The store’s high footfall allowed ASDA to stress test the technology and gather valuable learnings. The trial aimed to free up colleague time so staff could focus more on your needs. You benefit from accurate pricing and up-to-date customer information displayed on the digital labels. Feedback collected during the trial will help shape future technology rollouts and improve your shopping experience.
- Pricing updates now happen in as little as 15 seconds.
- Staff spend less time on manual tasks and more time assisting you.
- The trial follows a similar project at a Stevenage superstore, showing ASDA’s commitment to ongoing investment in store processes.
Note: Your experience and feedback during the trial play a key role in shaping the future of asda electronic shelf labels.
Staff Experiences and Operational Changes
You see staff adapting quickly to the new system. The trial simplified daily operations by allowing centralized price updates. Staff no longer need to walk the aisles to change paper tags. This shift lets them focus on helping you and maintaining store organization. The technology covers a wide range of products, so staff can manage inventory more efficiently. The trial also provided staff with opportunities to learn new digital tools, which supports professional growth and improves service quality.
Measurable Improvements and Challenges
You benefit from several measurable improvements during the trial. The table below summarizes key findings:
Improvement/Challenge Category | Description | Measurable Impact |
---|---|---|
Pricing Accuracy and Speed | Prices updated within 15 seconds, reducing manual labor and errors | Significant reduction in pricing errors and labor time |
Labor Cost Savings | Eliminates manual price changes through centralized updates | Up to 50% savings on label management costs; ROI within 1.5 to 3 years |
Dynamic Pricing | Real-time price adjustments enable timely markdowns for perishables | Increased sales and reduced food waste |
Inventory Management | Integration with inventory and POS systems improves stock accuracy | Reduced overstock and lost sales |
Customer Satisfaction | Accurate, up-to-date pricing enhances shopper experience | Higher customer loyalty and fewer pricing discrepancies |
Environmental Challenges | Maintaining wireless communication in cold, humid, frost-prone areas | Requires ongoing maintenance like battery replacement and software updates |
Maintenance and Support | Need for expert installation, condition-based maintenance, and software updates | Improved system reliability and reduced downtime |
Integration Needs | ESLs must integrate with inventory and environmental monitoring systems | Optimizes pricing strategies and reduces waste |
You see that asda electronic shelf labels deliver rapid price updates, labor cost reductions, and improved stock accuracy. The trial also revealed challenges, such as maintaining wireless reliability in cold or humid areas and the need for ongoing maintenance. Your feedback and the data collected during the trial will guide future improvements and ensure the technology continues to meet your needs.
The Future of Electronic Shelf Labels at ASDA
Expansion Plans and Next Steps
You can expect to see more stores adopting digital price tags in the coming years. ASDA has already tested electronic shelf edge labels in high-traffic locations. The company plans to expand this technology to additional stores, focusing on areas where efficiency and accuracy matter most. You will notice faster price updates and improved product information as the rollout continues. ASDA aims to streamline operations and enhance your shopping experience by making these digital labels a standard feature across its network.
Potential Innovations in Electronic Shelf Edge Labels
You may soon interact with even smarter shelf labels. Future versions could include color displays, touch-sensitive screens, or voice-assist features. These upgrades will help you find products more easily and access detailed information with a simple tap or scan. Some labels may use LED indicators to highlight promotions or guide you to specific items. You might also see integration with mobile apps, allowing you to receive personalized offers or shopping lists directly from the shelf. These innovations will make your shopping journey more interactive and efficient.
Tip: Stay alert for new features on digital labels, such as allergen alerts or instant product comparisons.
Ongoing Challenges and Considerations
You should know that digital transformation brings challenges. Technical issues, such as battery life and wireless connectivity, require ongoing attention. Staff must receive training to manage and maintain the new systems. You may notice occasional updates or maintenance periods as ASDA works to keep the technology running smoothly. Data security and privacy also remain important, especially as labels connect with other store systems. ASDA continues to evaluate these factors to ensure reliable service and protect your information.
You have seen how ASDA electronic shelf labels improve price accuracy, boost efficiency, and support sustainability. The trial showed that you benefit from faster updates and clearer information, while staff save time and reduce errors.
- You can expect more stores to adopt this technology soon.
The trial highlights ASDA’s commitment to innovation and better service. You will likely see even smarter shelf labels in the future.
FAQ
How do you know if a shelf label is electronic at ASDA?
You can spot electronic shelf labels by their digital screens. These labels display prices and product information clearly. You may also see QR codes or small icons on the display.
Can you trust the prices shown on electronic shelf labels?
You always see the most current price. ASDA updates these labels in real time. This system reduces pricing errors and ensures you pay the correct amount at checkout.
What should you do if you notice a problem with an electronic shelf label?
You should inform a staff member right away. Staff can check the system and fix any issues quickly. Your feedback helps ASDA maintain accurate information.
Tip: If you scan a QR code and it does not work, ask for assistance at the customer service desk.
Do electronic shelf labels affect your shopping experience?
You benefit from faster price updates and more accurate information. These labels help you make better decisions and save time during your visit.