Instacart Winds Down Caper Smart Cart Development

Instacart is winding down the team responsible for developing its Caper smart shopping carts, a move approved by the company's board of directors. The process is expected to conclude by the second quarter of 2027.

The company estimates the wind-down will cost between $55 million and $80 million due to contract cancellations and employee terminations. Instacart plans to reinvest the resulting savings into other strategic growth initiatives. The decision marks a shift in direction after the company attempted to diversify from a delivery startup into a retail technology provider.

The Caper carts used sensors and cameras to weigh produce, track items, and process payments, while also serving as a platform for tailored advertisements. CEO Fidji Simo had previously promoted the technology, stating, "We really believe that it's going to be the future of grocery shopping."