Instacart Partners with Morrisons to Launch Caper Carts
Instacart and Morrisons are partnering to bring AI-powered “smart trolleys”, Caper Carts, to the UK, with deployment starting in early 2026 at one Morrisons store and with potential for broader rollout. Morrisons will become the first UK retailer to use Caper Carts.
The Caper Carts have features that aim to make grocery shopping more seamless: customers can scan items as they shop, track their running total in real time, and finally check out by scanning a barcode displayed on the trolley screen at self-checkout. The trolleys have built-in scales for weighing fresh produce and AI sensors to guide users in scanning and placing items.
Additionally, Morrisons is integrating the Caper Carts with its More Card loyalty scheme, so customers get added convenience and savings. The technology also gives Morrisons new avenues for personalized deals, product pairing suggestions, and potential retail media/advertising in-store (via screens on the trolleys).
Learn more here.
Pokeworks Loyalty Program Quadruples Growth
Pokeworks is seeing record-breaking growth in 2025 thanks to a revamped loyalty program that has transformed its digital engagement strategy. Partnering with Thanx, the brand redesigned Pokeworks Rewards to be more personalized and data-driven, with easier earn-and-redeem options and a more compelling rewards marketplace.
The results have been striking: in the first seven months of 2025, new member enrollment grew four times faster than in 2024, with more than 80% of new signups coming through digital channels. This surge in loyalty activity has translated into double-digit monthly sales growth tied to rewards members, while also reducing the company’s overall discount burden and improving ROI.
The momentum has carried over into systemwide performance, with Pokeworks reporting a 14% same-store sales increase in July 2025, far outpacing the roughly 1% growth seen across the fast-casual sector. Leaders attribute the performance not only to stronger digital engagement but also to disciplined marketing, operational execution, and a craveable menu that extends beyond poke bowls to include hot plates and expanded beverage offerings. These innovations are helping the brand attract repeat visits and create stronger customer connections.
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Blain’s Farm & Fleet Day Proclaimed in Wisconsin for 70th Anniversary
Governor Tony Evers has officially proclaimed September 17, 2025 as Blain’s Farm & Fleet Day across Wisconsin, honoring the retailer’s 70 years of service to families and local communities. Since its founding in 1955 by brothers Bert and Claude Blain in Janesville, the company has expanded to 45 stores across four Midwestern states, while remaining family-owned and based in Janesville.
The proclamation highlights Blain’s longstanding commitment to supporting community causes, including 4-H and FFA, pet adoption events, the Bert Blain Memorial Heart Walk, and partnerships with many local charities in the communities where it operates. To mark its 70th anniversary, Blain’s is hosting a weeklong sale (September 11-17) with special savings and limited-edition products from brands like Carhartt and Yeti.
As part of the celebrations, there will also be a “Birdhouse Build-Along Workshop” on Saturday, September 13 at all 45 locations. Kids ages 6-12, accompanied by a parent or guardian, can build a birdhouse with store associates, receive a 20% off Craftsman coupon for that day, and enter for a chance to win a Craftsman 8-Tool Combo Kit.
Learn more here.