Marks & Spencer launches ‘scan and go’ app that lets customers pay with their mobile

A ‘scan and go’ smartphone shopping app is being launched by Marks & Spencer as stores race to abolish the traditional checkout and using cash.

The company will allow customers to shop and pay on their mobile, without visiting a till.

M&S says the technology means people do not have to queue and claims it is possible to buy a lunch meal deal in under 40 seconds.

M&S says the technology means people do not have to queue

But tills with staff will still be available for shoppers who prefer to use a checkout.

The service will be rolled out to six London stores, including Canary Wharf and Stratford Westfield, over the coming weeks.

Both the Co-op and Sainsbury’s are running trials on similar apps – where shoppers scan items with their phone camera.

Sacha Berendji, of M&S, said: ‘Digitally enabled stores that offer a seamless customer experience are a crucial part of our transformation and our ambition to be a digital first retailer.’