Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[Wipperwill]

For a large shop personally I prefer the manual check out but for a smaller shop I find the automatic check out much the better way to go.

 

[Penny4]

It's the way of the future, Coles is doing it Australia wide. The others will follow.

 

[OperaticZeus]

These have been around at some shops for a few years now

 

[Bernice S]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

If I am going to do the work of a supermarket checkout operator then I should get the same staff discount that they get. Till then I will try to support employment and line up for a serviced checkout.

 

[NotNats]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

I believe that there should be a balance between manned check-outs & self-served check-outs.
Min 4 manned check-outs for those who need help with their shopping.
Min 8 small shop self-served check-outs and the rest the big shop self-served check-outs.
Also, all staff doing a rotation of on-the-floor duties like check-out, online packers, shelf packers and other on-the-floor jobs. Floor rotation could be min set hours or mixed hours, time of day only with a min set of working hrs per day, per week. Rotation could be set in either 2 or 4 week blocks. Plus, there still could be set time-of-day hours for those who can't, due to homelife restrictions (carers or medical). I know that Woolies employees can submit their "available to work hours" which I think is great.

This should allow all employee's to be able to keep their jobs and at the same time the employer to cover all areas of business.

 

[Trudi]

So what is new about this? I have used those check-outs in Wagga Wagga and Canberra on a number of occasions and since my partner is usually with me, one unloads trolley while the other scans and bags.

If I am on my own, I still prefer the self service check-outs, especially since there is always a long line for manned check-outs.

 

[Jan Purcell]

Greed, I feel sorry for the check out chick and(roosters) they will be got rid of, and will end up on the dole while looking for a job. Lets face it if us customers have to serve ourselves then we should be paid for doing it. I for one will NOT go onto those robots machine, give me a friendly face any day, I was also told that they have cut down their hours. We have a Coles in Carrum Downs with these awful electric belts, I wont serve myself, might as well go to Aldi's or IGA who as far as we know don't have this so called technology, With all this new technology by the rate we are going, humans won't be working and all end up on the dole, so much for technology.

 

[Colette 3799]

I recon give people a choice, don’t just force self serve on everyone. Personally I refuse to use them - not my job, I don’t work there, but my sister always ops for self serve.

 

[Flipsout]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[riskydave]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

"Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours."

Because they close the traditional checkouts and force everyone to go to the self-serve jobs and then say how popular the self-serve ones are. Woolies is looking good for me now, again!

 

[Khate]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[Khate]

How stupid is this, now I really know how bad it is to get old and disabled. Pull the plug at 60 folks because at 80 I am really struggling

 

[Flipsout]

Coles

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Coles at Redcliffe Qld have had these for about 12 months. Usually only one traditional one is open.
At first it was annoying and we waited for a staff assisted checkout. However, we now use this new type most times. We miss the chance to have a chat with the operator. I guess that`s progress. More and more we are losing service in many areas of our lives.

 

[Inot54]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

The conveyor belt self serve checkouts have been in my local coles at Warner’s Bay NSW for over a ye now an I love them for big or small shops. So much easier than the small, difficult area of the original self service areas. Give them a go before complaining about them.

 

[Isis]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

At 83 I need help self serve that we have is hard enough and I have to handle an assistance dog. If you have someone who could step in put them on the register. I would ditch them and go to IGA where service still exists.

 

[Staffordshire Whippet]

I might support this concept if there was genuinely something in it for me, like a substantial discount on the total bill; minimum 5%. Otherwise, they can jam it, somewhere equally inconvenient and painful.

 

[Annna]

Congrats to Coles who are proudly contributing to Australia's unemployment figures.

No-one properly answers the question:

Where will all these retrenched employees get work when all stores (all, not only Coles) become 100% automated?

Most current employees in stores that I've been in smile and respond 'We'll be redeployed'

I find this response overused and threadbare because the redundancy process does away with jobs so that the organisation lowers it's operating expenses.

Once this has been achieved, I concede that some new positions may be created, however, an organisation does not do away with jobs and then create replacement jobs for all those retrenched.

The 'redeployed' response is a reply spoon fed to employees by the organisation to empower those workers to enthusiastically promote automation and technology use while the organisation focuses on replacing them with those technological changes.

 

[cjw1960]

Hold on to your shopping carts, folks, because technology has struck again! Just when we thought we had seen it all, a Coles supermarket in Mount Gravatt, Queensland, has introduced a new invention that has raised eyebrows and sparked a heated debate among Australian shoppers.

Say goodbye to traditional checkouts and hello to 'hybrid self-assisted' registers!

Now, you might be thinking, 'How can a self-assisted checkout be hybrid?' Well, let us tell you. These cutting-edge registers come equipped with conveyor belts, but there are no staff present to scan your items.

That's right – customers have to scan their own groceries. But don't worry; Coles hasn't completely eliminated the human touch. Employees are still available to step in if needed.

View attachment 18133

A Coles store in Queensland has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' registers, causing outrage among some shoppers. Pictured above is a similar store in Fairfield, Queensland. Credit: Facebook.

It's not the first time Coles has experimented with this concept. A supermarket in Melbourne tried it out last year, and it certainly got people talking.

But whether you're for or against these self-assisted checkouts, one thing is for sure – technology continues to evolve and reshape our world, sometimes challenging our notions of the human interaction we all grew up with.

But this move by Coles has not been without controversy. Many shoppers and local customers have expressed concerns about the potential reduction in the need for supermarket employees.

It's a topic that has stirred up strong emotions and ignited a debate about the balance between technology and human interaction in our everyday lives.

Not everyone is jumping on the bandwagon of this new technology. Just ask Lara, a shopper from Brisbane, who recently posted a photo on Twitter showing a Coles supermarket that is 'completely self-service only'.

She expressed her concern, fearing that this could be the first of many stores to adopt this approach.

'I was told that Coles has done the research. Apparently, we all asked for this,' she sarcastically wrote in a tweet. 'It is the first store in QLD, and in the future, all stores will be the same. The staff found my disgust amusing.'

And Lara isn't the only one who's sceptical. Clinton Maynard from 2GB's Weekend Today called the move 'ridiculous', highlighting that many people are not open to embracing new technology like this.

'We still need those staff for people who need to go to a checkout,' he pointed out, echoing the concerns of many others who value the human touch in their shopping experience.

Nationals leader David Littleproud chimed in, noting that the new technology may not be ideal for elderly customers. 'Those older people need people. It is about the human contact and the services they get,' he emphasised.

View attachment 18141​

The debate around self-serve checkouts shows no signs of slowing down, with opinions continuing to be divided. In a previous article, members of the SDC community shared their thoughts on the matter, highlighting concerns about accessibility, efficiency, and job losses.

Member @Suemac pointed out the need for one-on-one service, particularly for people with disabilities who may struggle with the self-serve option. Meanwhile, member @Marj53 shared her experience of long lines of people waiting for self-serve checkouts, which were no quicker than traditional checkouts, even during peak hours.

Member @Cheezil emphasised the importance of keeping jobs and argued that self-serve checkouts would take longer for customers to scan their groceries than for a checkout operator to do it.

And member @Lesleymorris58 summed it up by stating her preference for human service, saying that customers don't work at the supermarket and don't get paid for ringing up their own groceries. 'We don't even get a discount!' she added.

On the other hand, some members of the SDC community have expressed their support for self-serve checkouts, highlighting their convenience and efficiency.

Member @Suzanne rose shared that she finds self-serve checkouts to be quick and easy to use. She argued that if it weren't for self-serve, the lines would be much longer, leading to complaints about wait times. She also pointed out that most people want to get in and out quickly and are happy to use self-serve to do so.

Member @Michael Kaff also expressed support for self-serve checkouts but noted that they are not always practical for a large shop. For a few items, however, he finds them convenient and efficient.

It's clear that opinions on self-serve checkouts are varied and often dependent on personal preferences and circumstances. While some find them to be a convenient and speedy option, others prefer the human touch and worry about the impact on jobs and accessibility.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance that works for everyone involved.

Key Takeaways

• Supermarket chain Coles has introduced 'hybrid self-assisted' checkouts in a Queensland store, sparking a debate among shoppers and politicians over the impact on jobs and accessibility.
• Some customers argue that self-serve checkouts are quick and efficient, while others prefer the human touch and are concerned about the impact on employment opportunities and accessibility for those with disabilities.

What do you think, members? Is this new system a convenience or an inconvenience? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[cjw1960]

We have manned and self service checkouts at Reynella SA however the self service checkouts with the conveyor belts are never open. This causes huge lines waiting for service. It is beyond a joke!