Move over, Amazon: American Express launches its first checkout-free store
Following in the footsteps of Amazon's contactless stores, American Express has opened up its own check-out free store in the Barclay Center arena in Brooklyn. The store, exclusive to Amex cardholders, offers concessions and merchandise to help fans avoid long lines and get back to the action faster. The store is a partnership between Amex and the sports arena to keep fans safe from COVID-19.
The shop features a variety of food and beverage concession items, along with unique, locally sourced items from Brooklyn small businesses and, of course, select merchandise items usually found in the Brooklyn Nets Team Store. The shop is on the Barclay Center's main concourse, outside of section 6, next to the American Express Card Member Entrance.
According to the American Express Trendex: Experiences Survey, nearly two-thirds of live-entertainment consumers agree that because of COVID-19, contactless payment options have never been more important to them. And 70% say that having a contactless payment option available would make them feel more comfortable returning to live sports, music and entertainment events.
Card members can tap their contactless Amex card, mobile wallet or insert their card to enter the shop. There may be a $1.00 hold on the card, which will be updated after purchases are completed. Technology tracks movements in the store, with each item having a unique weight that is tracked through weight-sensitive shelf sensors.
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If an item is replaced on an incorrect shelf, the system will identify that the item was moved -- but not purchased -- and the inventory report will alert the store operator that an item is in the wrong location. In-store staff are available to monitor any issues that may arise.
After making a purchase, cardholders can see their receipts at Go.Amex/Bkshop. You'll need to enter the last four digits of your physical card or digital wallet four-digit tail number, along with the date and approximate time of purchase. All sales are final due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
An American Express spokeswoman notes that it is focused on launching the American Express Shop at Barclays Center, so there are no plans at this time to expand in additional locations.
Related: Here's how the pandemic is completely changing how we pay
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