Amazon and Starbucks have discussed launching jointly branded coffee shops using the BigTech firm’s checkout-free technology, according to sources reported by Business Insider.

The news comes after Tesco announced the launch of its first “just walk out” store yesterday, putting the Big Four supermarket in direct competition with Amazon.

According to the sources, customers would have to use the Amazon or Starbucks apps to pay for food or coffee separately.

However, the sources said that the companies eventually wished to “build an integrated solution” and that the stores are expected to eventually launch a newly created joint brand.

However, the sources said it is not yet confirmed whether the tie-up will happen.
Amazon Go stores first launched in the US in 2018, and enable shoppers to scan a code or their palm when they walk in. Customers can then take items from the shelf and exit the store without going through a traditional check-out process.

The news comes as Amazon continues to rapidly roll out checkout free outlets in the UK.

The retailer launched its first cashierless store in Ealing, west London in March of this year.

The BigTech giant has since launched cashierless stores in Dalston, White City, Wembley, and Canary Wharf. LINK

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