Smart grocery stores are reshaping the way people shop at a pace few could have predicted. By the end of the year, more than 18 million shoppers in the United States will use grocery apps each month, reflecting nearly 50 percent growth compared with last year. What began as a trend in large metropolitan areas has quickly expanded to suburban supermarkets and beyond.

The surge in digital innovation has transformed both the customer journey and store operations. Research shows that 87 percent of grocery executives expect marketing to evolve into hyper-personalized experiences, while 71 percent believe technology will help them capture a greater share of their customers’ daily lives. In practice, these shifts are already visible. Kroger’s Scan, Bag, Go system is now active in 400 stores, and smart carts equipped with touchscreens can guide shoppers and calculate bills in real time.

This article examines how smart technology is redefining grocery shopping, why frictionless checkout is becoming a standard expectation, and how behind-the-scenes systems are streamlining store operations. Readers will gain insight into why some retailers are thriving while others struggle, and what lessons can be drawn from the most innovative players in the market.

Smart technology is reshaping the grocery experience

Image Source: GeekWire

The battle for retail supremacy has reached store aisles, where state-of-the-art technology changes how we shop and pay for groceries.

Digital shelf displays and up-to-the-minute pricing

Paper price tags are disappearing faster than ever. Walmart leads this change with plans to roll out digital shelf labels (DSLs) across 2,300 stores by 2026. Store teams now update prices in minutes instead of spending two full days on the task.

These displays bring remarkable adaptability to pricing. Some European grocery chains adjust their prices up to 100 times each day to stay competitive. Staff members use “Stock to Light” and “Pick to Light” features to find items that need restocking or products for online orders quickly.

Shoppers respond well to this technology. About 80% say they’re more likely to buy products when they can scan information codes on digital displays. 

Smart carts and in-aisle product guidance

Smart shopping carts mark another innovation in grocery tech. Nearly half of surveyed grocers plan to assess them within the next year.

Smart carts pack powerful features with their built-in sensors and cameras:

• They identify products automatically without scanning
• Produce weighing happens right in the cart
• Built-in maps guide shoppers through stores
• They recommend matching products and show current deals

The best part? Customers can pay right at their cart and skip the checkout lines completely.

Mobile apps for tailored shopping

Grocery apps have become must-have shopping tools. AnyList stands out with its impressive 4.9-out-of-5-star rating. Shoppers create and share lists that update instantly when family members make changes. Many apps connect directly to retailers like Walmart and Kroger, letting customers order groceries without switching platforms.

Smart grocery apps help plan meals and create shopping lists automatically. Target Circle shows exactly where items sit on store shelves. This saves time and eliminates random searching through large stores.

Frictionless checkout is becoming the new standard

Image Source: Chain Store Age

Checkout has evolved into the final frontier of grocery breakthroughs. Retailers are rushing to eliminate the most frustrating part of shopping—waiting in line. The global self-checkout market is growing faster and will reach $13.98 billion by 2030 with a 16.2% annual growth rate.

Scan-and-go mobile tools

Walmart, Sam’s Club, and ShopRite now accept new ideas with scan-and-go technology. Shoppers can scan products with their smartphones while they shop. The system creates a virtual cart with live totals that has discounts and loyalty rewards. Customers can pay through the app or at a designated area and skip traditional checkout lines completely.

Computer vision and Just Walk Out systems

Amazon’s Just Walk Out technology stands out as the most advanced solution. It combines AI, cameras, and sensors to track customers’ selections and returns to shelves. The process is simple – enter the store, take what you want, and leave. Your account gets charged automatically. Lumen Field’s results prove the success – an 85% increase in transactions and a 112% boost in sales after implementing this technology.

Online ordering systems built for grocery stores

Grocery stores now provide dedicated solutions that connect digital shopping with in-store operations. An online ordering system for grocery, such as the one offered by Wave Grocery, allows customers to create virtual carts from home and choose either pickup or delivery. 

Beyond convenience, these platforms bring a range of benefits to both shoppers and store owners:

• Direct ordering from the store’s own platform instead of relying on third-party marketplaces
• Access to detailed product information and nutritional data
• Integrated loyalty programs with personalized discounts
• Options to communicate with in-store shoppers about substitutions

Self-checkout kiosks vs. mobile-first models

Self-checkout kiosks are common now but they have drawbacks. They need much hardware investment and valuable floor space. They often create bottlenecks during busy times. So many smart grocery stores now change toward mobile-first checkout models that use customers’ devices. This eliminates fixed checkout points and reduces congestion—especially during peak shopping hours. 

On top of that, mobile checkout solutions update inventory live and deliver tailored promotions to each shopper. This creates a win-win situation for customers and retailers alike.

Behind-the-scenes tech is driving efficiency

Image Source: Grocery Dive

Complex technology powers the smooth customer experience you see in modern grocery stores. Data-driven systems quietly streamline retail processes through the operational backbone of smart grocery stores.

AI-powered inventory and demand forecasting

Predictive analytics and artificial intelligence have become essential tools for inventory management. These systems analyze historical sales data to predict demand changes and reduce waste. This method cuts out-of-stock incidents by 20-30% compared to traditional manual approaches. McKinsey’s research shows robots detect out-of-stock situations 14 times better than human scans.

These AI forecasting systems deliver remarkable results:

• Fresh product waste drops by up to 30%
• Forecast accuracy improves for 90% of SKUs
• Inventory costs decrease by about 10%

The core team can now focus on helping customers instead of repetitive tasks like scanning shelves and updating prices.

Dark stores and robotic fulfillment

Dark stores have created a radical alteration in grocery operations. These retail spaces serve online orders exclusively and stay closed to the public. You won’t find checkout counters or sales floors here – just streamlined picking systems.

Amazon leads this trend by testing mini-warehouses next to Whole Foods locations. Their robots collect items for customer pickup. Finally has also created robotic “store fulfillment centers” that help existing grocery stores adapt to omnichannel retail.

The numbers make sense: dark store picking costs £12 per grocery order, substantially lower than traditional stores’ £18-£20 cost.

Grocery technology in supply chain optimization

IoT sensors now reshape maintenance and monitoring throughout the supply chain. Smart systems can predict when equipment might fail, which cuts downtime and maintenance expenses. Grocers use sensors in coolers and freezers to spot maintenance needs before operations stop. This technology boosts team productivity by 1.5% across store networks.

The North American food robotics market hit $842.94 million in 2023. Experts project this will reach nearly $1.94 billion by 2032. These investments show how technology reshapes grocery operations and creates unprecedented efficiency from warehouse to checkout.

Why some stores are falling behind

Modern technology keeps moving forward, yet many grocery retailers remain stuck in outdated operational models. As a result, the divide between innovative and traditional stores grows larger each day. Several factors explain why some retailers struggle to keep pace:

• Failure to adapt to changing consumer behavior: Grocery prices have risen nearly 30 percent since 2019, and shoppers are more focused on saving money than staying loyal to brands. Research shows that 57 percent of customers are willing to switch stores for better deals. Retailers that still aim at the “average” customer overlook the diversity of household types and evolving shopping priorities.
• Overreliance on legacy systems: Many grocers still depend on outdated custom technology that is expensive to maintain and slow to update. Without reliable internet infrastructure or modern platforms, updates can take four times longer and cost ten times more than they should, preventing stores from creating new solutions.
• Lack of investment in digital infrastructure: Profit margins in grocery average just one to three percent, leaving little room for innovation. Limited technical resources and a shortage of AI expertise stop many retailers from implementing essential digital tools.
• Ignoring sustainability and local sourcing trends: Sustainability now drives more purchase decisions, with 95 percent of consumers aiming to live more sustainably. Yet 26 percent report difficulty finding sustainable products online. 

Looking Ahead at the Grocery Landscape

The grocery industry is entering a period where innovation decides success. Stores that embrace smart technology are not just improving the customer experience, they are also strengthening operations behind the scenes. Shoppers now expect convenience, personalization, and sustainability, and the retailers who deliver on these expectations will stand out in a crowded market.

The lesson is clear: adapting to change is no longer optional. Those who invest in digital tools, streamline operations, and connect with consumer values will thrive. Those who resist risk being left behind as the next generation of smart grocery stores sets new standards for efficiency, service, and loyalty.

To calculate construction cost, you need to understand all factors that influence the overall cost. If you are planning to build or renovate a property in the current year, then you need to be very careful while planning the budget. However, you can predict accurate project estimates when you are aware of accurate measurements. Otherwise, during the construction phase, you will experience unexpected surprises.

Building owners are not aware of minor and technical details of the construction projects. For this reason, they rely on expert Construction Cost Estimating Services to prevent budget overruns. So, get assistance from top-rated companies like SMA Estimating LLC. Generally, the price for residential projects is between $100-$400 per square foot, and $240-$870 per square foot for commercial buildings. But let us show you how to calculate the construction cost per square foot.

Current Construction Cost Overview 

Residential Construction

According to the reports, almost $ 195 per square foot is charged for a new residential project. But this figure can be different according to the project location.

Most Expensive States

• Hawaii: $230 per square foot
• Alaska: $228 per square foot
• California & New Jersey: $225 per square foot
• New York: $211 per square foot
• Massachusetts: $210 per square foot

Moderate Cost States

• Colorado: $172 per square foot
• Iowa: $171 per square foot
• Texas: $162 per square foot

Least Expensive States:

• Mississippi: $154 per square foot
• Arkansas: $156 per square foot
• Oklahoma: $158 per square foot

Commercial Construction Costs

Commercial construction costs are always higher due to size and complexity. 

If we talk about office buildings, then:

• Single-story costs between $240-$440 per square foot
• Mid-rise cost ranges between $330-$870 per square foot
• High buildings cost between $430-$1,000 per square foot

How to Calculate Construction Cost per Square Foot?

Basic Calculation Formula

Total Construction Cost ÷ Total Square Footage

 = Cost per Square Foot

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Determine Your Project Scope 

You must start by establishing your building class. Then, calculate the total floor area through architectural design.

Step 2: Measure Total Square Footage

• Calculate the gross square footage
• Also include unusable space
• Include all interior and exterior areas

Step 3: Break Down All Construction Costs 

Comprehensive cost calculation should include:

Hard Costs:

• Foundation and excavation
• Framing and structure
• Roofing and exterior
• Interior finishes
• MEP systems
• Landscaping 
• site work

Soft Costs

• Architectural fees
• Building permits 
• Legal fees
• Construction loan interest
• Project management fees

Step 4: Factor in Location-Specific Variables 

Building costs depend on labor costs, with a 2% to 6% difference between urban and suburban areas. Consider:

• Local labor rates
• Material availability and transportation costs
• Local building codes and regulations
• Site conditions and accessibility

Step 5: Apply the Formula 

You need to sum hard and soft costs and then divide by total square footage for your final per-square-foot cost.

However, by relying on a reliable construction takeoff company, you can easily get the desired results and save your budget.

Construction Cost Calculators and Tools

Digital Estimation Tools

Several online calculators can help refine your estimates:

1. Free Construction Cost Calculators – Available from various construction websites
2. Residential Construction Cost by Zip Code Calculators – Provide location-specific pricing
3. RSMeans Data Square Foot Estimator – Professional-grade tool for detailed estimates

Professional Construction Estimating Services

Consider hiring professional estimators from a reliable source such as SMA Estimating LLC. They offer error-free construction estimating services for all project scopes that save up to 60% overall budget. 

How to save costs?

Design Optimization

Use the right materials that can reduce maintenance in the future. Go with installing energy-efficient systems!

Material Management

• Lock in material prices when steel or lumber dips
• Buy materials in bulk when possible
• Source locally available materials to reduce transportation costs
• Choose standardized building components over custom elements

Contractor Selection

• Partner with contractors who retain skilled crews to reduce rework and delays
• Obtain multiple detailed quotes for comparison
• Verify contractor licensing 
• Consider design-build contractors for streamlined project delivery

Regional Construction Cost Breakdown 

Northeast Region

• On average, the cost is around $ 155 per square foot
• With high-quality custom, it increases between $ 300-$ 400 per square foot

Western Region

• On Average, the western region cost per square foot is almost $ 131 per square foot
• Coastal cities’ rates lie between $ 200-$ 350 per square foot

Southern Region

• On average, these costs start at $ 109 per square foot
• Major cities cost ranges between $ 130-$ 180 per square foot

Midwest Region

• On average, the Midwest area costs $ 100 per square foot
• Rural Midwest costs between $ 80-$ 110 per square foot

Conclusion

However, to calculate construction cost per square foot, follow the right guidelines to prevent mistakes. But remember that calculating the cost per square foot is just one major step to generate accurate construction estimates. There are a lot of other factors that need to be considered to prevent cost overruns. Plus, always seek expert help when you are not experienced or do not have enough information regarding the project. We highly recommend that you get professional services from SMA Estimating LLC and secure your funds for every project element.

Ever had your car suddenly act up after filling up?

Sometimes it isn’t the car, it’s the fuel. Water sneaks into tanks more often than people think, and spotting it early keeps you from paying for a tow or worse.

Let’s break down where it comes from, what it looks like on the road, and how you can test it yourself.

Why Water Ends Up in the Tank

Leaky storage tanks at a gas station can send you home with more water than fuel. Forgetting the gas cap during a rainstorm? Yep, that’ll do it too. Cars caught in floods or even just splashing through deep puddles aren’t safe either. Old plastic fuel cans left outside also collect condensation and dump that water right into your tank.

Truth is, modern fuel systems are sealed pretty well. Condensation inside the tank isn’t the main culprit anymore. – Most issues stem from either contaminated fuel or an improperly sealed cap.

Signs While Driving

Ever try to start your car after rain and it just… coughs? That’s one red flag.

Press the gas pedal and it hesitates like it’s thinking twice, that’s another.

Engines that shake at idle, sudden power drops on the highway, or stalling right after startup all scream “water.” Even the check engine light might flash with misfire codes. If your fuel economy suddenly tanks without reason, consider this too.

Quick Checks Before Wrenching

Timing matters. Did issues start right after you fueled up? Ask if anyone else who filled at that station had problems. And if you left your gas cap hanging, mystery solved.

Easy At-Home Tests

Rule one: safety. Work outside, don’t light anything, and grab a fire extinguisher just in case.

Clear Jar Method

• Draw a small sample of fuel from the bottom of your tank and collect it in a glass jar. 

• Let it sit. Wait 15 minutes or so.

   

• Gas should float. Water collects at the bottom or shows up as beads. If you run E10 fuel, it may look cloudy or milky.

   

(Some cars have anti-siphon parts, so don’t jam a hose in there. If it doesn’t work, move on.)

Fuel Filter Peek
Older cars or trucks sometimes have a filter you can drain. Pour a little into a clear cup. Beads of water at the bottom? Game over.

Water Detecting Paste
You can buy a special paste at auto parts stores. Dip a stick into the tank; if the color changes, there’s water.

What To Do Right Away

Car still drives fine, just hiccups? Add an isopropyl-based water remover, then drive gently. That blends small amounts of water so it burns off.

But if it’s stalling nonstop, or won’t start? Stop immediately! Running the pump with water will burn it out. At that point, the tank needs to be drained and refilled. And no matter what, replace the fuel filter afterward. Cheap fix, big protection.

How Much Is Too Much?

Tiny amounts are normal. Ethanol fuels can hold some water, but once it separates, the engine starts pulling pure water and dies. If you spot two layers in a jar or your car stalls soon after a fill-up, that’s the line—drain it.

Shop or DIY?

• Additive only: Works if it’s minor. Low cost. Quick.

   

• Drain & refill: Best for heavy water, flood damage, or phase separation. A shop will usually pull fuel through the sender or drop the tank entirely.

   

When to Call a Mechanic

If you’ve tried an additive and the car still stalls, misfires keep popping up, or you suspect floodwater, don’t push it. Testing isn’t worth damaging the engine further.

Real Prevention Tips

Keep the gas cap tight and replace it if it’s cracked. Don’t top up during tanker deliveries. Store fuel cans indoors and sealed, and keep your tank above a quarter full.

Myth Busting

• “Dry gas fixes everything.” Nope, only small amounts.

   

• “Just drive it out.” Risky. Pumps and injectors can fail.

   

• “Condensation is the big problem.” Not really. Most modern tanks are sealed; it’s usually the fuel itself.

   

Bottom Line

Water in fuel has a telltale pattern: rough running after rain or a fill, two layers in a jar test, and either a quick fix with additives or a full drain if it’s bad.

Preventing issues is simple: ensure the cap is tightly sealed, refuel at trusted stations, and maintain clean storage conditions. For a more detailed breakdown of the warning signs, check Fuel Logic’s guide on water in a gas tank.

Pest problems often start small but can quickly take over a home if clutter is left unchecked. Old furniture, cardboard boxes, and yard debris all attract pests that thrive in hidden, messy spaces. By cleaning out these problem areas, you reduce their chances of moving in. If you want to keep your home safe, learn more about junk removal services that tackle clutter head-on. With junk removal Queens companies, you get a cleaner home and fewer pest issues.

Why Pest Problems Often Start With Clutter

Pests love clutter because it gives them shelter, food, and a place to breed. A pile of cardboard in the basement or a broken dresser in the garage can become the perfect home for rodents or cockroaches. Once they settle in, it’s hard to push them out. Junk removal Queens helps by clearing these areas before pests can move in. With less clutter, you cut down on the hiding spots that invite infestations in the first place.

The Connection Between Junk and Pest Infestations

Junk is more than an eyesore—it’s a magnet for pests. Damp boxes, broken furniture, and old mattresses provide warmth and moisture, perfect for insects and rodents. In a crowded area like Queens, this becomes a bigger issue because infestations can spread quickly from one apartment or house to another. Junk removal Queens services directly tackle this problem by getting rid of the piles that attract pests. Without junk lying around, there’s nothing left for them to feed on or hide in.

Benefits of Professional Junk Removal for Pest Prevention

Professional junk removal Queens isn’t just about cleaning up; it’s about keeping pests away. By removing yard waste, you stop mosquitoes from breeding. By clearing out old couches and beds, you reduce the risk of rodents or bedbugs. Professionals also know how to haul and dispose of junk safely, so pests don’t find a new home somewhere else. It’s an easy way to take care of clutter while protecting your living space from infestations that are costly and stressful.

Junk Removal vs. DIY Cleanups in Pest Control

Many people think they can handle clutter on their own, but DIY cleanups often leave behind items pests still use. Missed boxes, heavy furniture, or hidden trash piles can attract rodents and roaches. Professional junk removal Queens teams do the job fully and safely. They know what to look for, how to lift bulky items, and where to dispose of them properly. This complete approach leaves no space for pests to hide, unlike quick, surface-level cleanups at home.

Common Junk That Attracts Pests in Queens Homes

Certain types of junk are more likely to invite pests. Old mattresses and couches can hide bedbugs and mice. Stacked cardboard boxes often attract cockroaches. Damp wood or yard waste provides a breeding ground for termites and mosquitoes. Even broken appliances may hold nesting rodents. Junk removal Queens helps homeowners identify and remove these risky items before they become a bigger problem. Getting rid of them not only improves your home’s look but also keeps infestations from starting.

Seasonal Junk Removal and Pest Prevention

Each season brings new pest threats, making year-round cleanups important. In spring, clearing yard waste stops mosquitoes before they multiply. Summer is the peak season for roaches and ants, so removing food waste and clutter is vital. Fall sends rodents indoors, making garages and basements prime spots unless cleared. Winter is no break either, as pests seek warmth. Junk removal Queens scheduled throughout the year keeps homes ahead of these seasonal threats, reducing the chances of infestations spreading.

How Junk Removal Services in Queens Work

Junk removal Queens services make it easy to stay pest-free. You schedule a pickup, and a professional crew arrives to handle the heavy lifting. They haul away everything from broken appliances to yard debris. Many services also recycle or donate usable items, cutting down on landfill waste. Fast, reliable removal stops pests from settling in while junk piles sit around. This simple process gives homeowners less stress, more space, and a cleaner, safer property for their families.

Extra Steps Homeowners Can Take Alongside Junk Removal

Junk removal Queens is powerful, but it works even better when combined with other pest prevention steps. Seal cracks where pests can enter, store food in sealed containers, and empty trash regularly. Keep basements and garages clean so rodents and bugs have no safe hiding places. Simple actions like mowing the lawn and removing standing water also make a difference. With junk gone and good daily habits in place, homeowners can keep pests from coming back.

Protecting Queens Homes from Pests and Clutter

Junk removal in Queens is more than just hauling away clutter—it’s a strong defense against pests. Infestations begin where junk piles up, giving insects and rodents shelter, warmth, and food sources. By removing old mattresses, yard waste, cardboard boxes, and broken appliances, you take away everything pests rely on. Professional junk removal crews make the process quick, thorough, and safe, leaving no chance for pests to return. For residents in Queens, regular junk removal combined with smart prevention steps means healthier homes, less stress, and fewer costly problems with pests. It’s an easy way to protect your space while keeping your neighborhood clean.