Walgreen explores making shopping more like a video game

Will you spend more if shopping becomes more like playing a video game? Drugstore chain Walgreen Co. wants to find out.

The Deerfield company and Aisle411 are testing augmented reality technology that could be turned into a consumer app that will help customers find products on store shelves as well as alert shoppers to discounts and other specials in nearby aisles.

Advertising Age says the companies are testing the Google technology in four Walgreen stores, including one in Chicago and another in St. Louis, where Aisle411 is based.

“This initiative enables us to further explore how Walgreens can create an even more convenient and relevant customer experience,” a Walgreen spokeswoman told Advertising Age. “The test allows participants to reimagine the retail experience and explore what future enhancements could be made to better meet customer need.”