Netto, which belongs to supermarket chain Edeka, will over the coming weeks be offering its customers the option to download and install the app, enabling them to leave cash and credit cards at home.

When at the checkout, a shopper simply goes into the app – which can be used on iPhones or those with an Android system – which gives them a code for the checkout worker to type in. The money is taken out of the person’s account via standing order.

The app will also automatically deduct money-saving coupons, and take in-store deals into account.

Netto head Franz Pröls told the food industry magazine Lebensmittel Zeitung that the new service should make Netto a forerunner in the supermarket world.

DPA/The Local/jcw