MINNEAPOLIS � Target is trialing wireless beacons in 50 test stores as an aid to brick-and-mortar shoppers.
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The technology, long in use at retail, uses small Bluetooth transmitters to send location-based information to customers� mobile devices. In Target�s case, shoppers in pilot stores in Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, New York, Pittsburgh, Portland, San Francisco and Seattle can receive up to two �pop-up� alerts on their phones when they opt in via the discounter�s shopping app. The alerts include coupon offers and product recommendations based on the customer�s location on the sales floor. Future features will allow shopping lists to be dynamically re-sorted as customers move through the store, or to summon a sales associate through the app.
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�We�re excited to start using beacon technology to offer real-time, relevant content and services that can help make shopping at Target easier and more fun,� said�Jason Goldberger, president of�Target.com�and mobile. �This is another way Target is bridging mobile and stores, and using digital to enhance the in-store shopping experience. We look forward to seeing how our guests respond to what we�ve built.�
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So far the service is only available on Apple devices, although Target will be bringing it to Android, and additional stores, later this year.�
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This article originally appeared on Radio sister website, TWICE.�
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