Lidl has introduced a new self-scanning feature in its loyalty app that aims to reduce waiting time at the checkout counter. Shoppers can now use the app on their smartphones to scan items before making the payment, streamlining the shopping experience. This functionality was initially trialed in four stores earlier this year with plans for a wider rollout in the coming year.

The supermarket chain has applied for a trademark in Europe and the UK for “Lidl & Go,” focusing on digital payment and scan-and-shop systems within its stores. Shyam Unarket, Customer Relations Director at Lidl GB, highlighted the company’s commitment to enhancing the digital shopping experience by integrating payment options into the Lidl Plus app.

Lidl recently emerged as the most affordable supermarket, surpassing Aldi for the second time in a row, according to a study by Which?. A comparison of a shopping list consisting of 70 items revealed that the average cost at Lidl was £120.46 in October, slightly lower for Lidl Plus members at £120.38. In contrast, the same items at Aldi amounted to an average of £121.

Aldi has previously held the title of the cheapest supermarket 22 times in the last 24 months, as per Which? analysis. The price check encompassed both branded and own-label products, such as Birds Eye Peas, Hovis bread, milk, and butter. On the other hand, Tesco customers would have spent £134.89 last month, or £133.38 with a Clubcard, while Sainsbury’s shoppers faced a bill of £139.68, reduced to £136.79 with a Nectar card.

Which? also conducts price comparisons on a broader list of 187 items, excluding Aldi and Lidl due to their smaller product range compared to other supermarket chains.