The idea of a motorised shopping trolley, once a distant concept, is increasingly becoming a reality globally, with implications for Kenya's evolving retail sector. While traditional push-along trolleys, first introduced in the US in 1937, remain the standard in Kenyan supermarkets, technological advancements are paving the way for more sophisticated shopping experiences.

Internationally, motorised shopping trolleys are already in use, primarily featuring electric motors for propulsion. Some advanced versions even incorporate computerised systems to guide shoppers to specific aisles and facilitate checkout processes. These innovations aim to address challenges such as the physical effort of pushing heavy loads, particularly for the elderly or those with mobility issues, and to streamline the overall shopping journey.

Local Innovations and Retail Landscape

In Kenya, the retail sector is undergoing significant transformation, driven by increased internet penetration, smartphone usage, and the widespread adoption of digital payment solutions like M-Pesa. This digital-first landscape is pushing retailers to embrace technology not merely as an add-on but as a core business strategy.

While fully motorised shopping trolleys are not yet a common sight in Kenyan supermarkets, there are notable local innovations in related areas. For instance, Auto truck East Africa, a startup founded by Kenneth Guantai in 2015, has developed electric handcarts, known as 'mkokoteni', to address congestion and promote green mobility in urban centres like Nairobi. These patented electric handcarts are built with trans-axle DC motors and controller systems, aiming to improve efficiency in load carriage and reduce carbon emissions.

Another significant local development is the 'Halisi Trolley' by Zuhura Solutions, an innovative solar and bioethanol-powered cooking solution transforming the street food industry in counties such as Nairobi, Meru, and Machakos. These trolleys enhance food safety and hygiene, reduce reliance on charcoal, and offer economic growth opportunities for vendors.

The Rise of Smart Carts and Retail Technology

Beyond simple motorisation, the concept of 'smart shopping carts' is gaining traction globally and has relevance for Kenya. These carts often integrate weighing scales, sensors, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to identify items placed inside, offer cashier-less self-checkout, and provide personalised promotions based on shopping history and in-store location. Such technology aims to reduce checkout queues, track inventory in real-time, and enhance the overall customer experience.

Kenyan retailers are increasingly investing in technology-led payment solutions and self-checkout systems to improve customer interaction and efficiency. Carrefour, for example, has implemented self-checkout solutions in several of its Nairobi stores, with positive customer reception, indicating a readiness among Kenyan consumers to adopt new retail technologies.

Challenges and Future Outlook

The widespread adoption of advanced motorised and smart shopping trolleys in Kenya's mainstream retail could face challenges, including initial investment costs, maintenance, and potential issues like theft, which is a concern even with conventional trolleys. However, the benefits in terms of customer convenience, operational efficiency, and data collection for retailers are substantial.

The future of retail in Kenya is expected to be a blend of online and offline experiences, with technology driving efficiency and customer satisfaction. As mobile technology matures and AI-driven intelligence becomes more prevalent, retailers who embrace these innovations are poised to stay ahead in the competitive East African market.

Evidence/Data Box

• E-commerce Revenue in Kenya (2020): Estimated at $1.1 billion, making Kenya the country with the highest digital revenue generation in Africa.
• Mobile Money Adoption: Kenya leads East Africa in mobile money adoption, with platforms like M-Pesa deeply embedded in daily life.
• Retail Sector Contribution to GDP: The retail sector has contributed upwards of nine percent to Kenya's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the past five consecutive years (as of July 2023).
• Self-Checkout Adoption: A store like Carrefour Westgate reported over 10% of transactions done through self-checkout systems as of June 2024.

What to Watch

The coming years will likely see increased integration of smart technologies in Kenyan retail. Watch for pilot programmes involving advanced shopping cart technologies in major supermarket chains, and further innovations from local startups focusing on green and efficient mobility solutions. The evolution of consumer behaviour and regulatory frameworks around data privacy and algorithmic pricing will also be key areas to monitor.