There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

 

[freedy50]

I was going to write the same thing . Too many people are stealing and that makes the prices go up. I feel sorry for the person having to check the items and receipts. They need more mature people to do it, not the kids that are doing it at my local Kmarts.

That's what I was going to say. They could at least employ trained security people for this job. I've often thought the staff they put on the doors in my local store wouldn't dare stop anyone if they got aggressive with them.

 

[Southmelbswans]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Not surpising Bunnings and KMart doing same thing they are both owned by same company Wesfarmers

 

[Happyjack]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

I manged a number of servos in NZ and one of the security sayings was
80% are honest, 10% are dishonest, and 10% are just waiting for the opportunity
For the people compaing about security chewcks, this is the unfortunate "price" one pays for the other 20%
And in one big store I trained in a dinner set on display slowly disappeared so they kept a close eye on it. Not close enough as the rest disappeared without them seeing it go.
some people will try every trick in the book to steal stuff from stores - even big items like TVs.

 

[elcid01]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Yes and no.
When there are so many ratbags out there stealing heaps of products all over the place.
It is costing companies millions of dollars a year.
I can't blame places checking bags and receipts.
A bit sad when it has to come to this

 

[Freeman27]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

Theft is always a problem and yes the open plan that Kmart has adopted leaves it open to those people who are attracted to five finger discounts or walk-away specials to ply their trade for which we must all be subjected to those pesky inspections I personally have never had a problem with this but ultimately if you do then shop with your feet and go elsewhere the choice is yours?

 

[Jest]

This is not a new system as bag checks have been around for years.

Bag check guidelines have been developed by the Australian Retailers Association and have been endorsed by NSW Fair Trading or the Department of Fair Trading in your State or Territory.

The bag check guidelines outline customer and retailer rights and responsibilities as determined by the general law of contract (as the customer entering a shop does so ‘under licence’ from the retailer). They do not form a part of Australian Consumer Law.

Your rights as a customer​

• You have the right to know before entry that a shop conducts bag checks. Signage must be clearly displayed at the entrance/s to the shop.
• Store personnel are only allowed to look in your bag. They are not allowed to touch the contents inside. However, if you are asked to remove an object in your bag so they can see inside properly, you are expected to cooperate.
• All bags can be checked however, small handbags (the size of A4 paper or smaller) should not be unless the retailer is certain they contain goods from that shop which have not been paid for.
• A retailer is only allowed to detain you and call the police in situations where they are sure an offence has been committed.
• If shop staff forcibly detain or search you and you have not committed an offence, you are entitled to make a complaint to store management or NSW Police or Police in your State or Territory.

Although you have rights as a customer, you should be aware of the guidelines that protect the retailer. They are:

• If you enter a store with signage clearly advising bag checks as a condition of entry, you are agreeing to this condition of entry and therefore, a bag check.
• The retailer’s right to check your bags also includes checking cartons, parcels or any other container you are carrying that could reasonably conceal goods.
• If you refuse to allow shop staff to check your bags, you can be asked to leave the shop and not return.

i do not have a problem showing a receipt. I do have a problem of lining up half way in the store to pay for items. The IF i spot something that i would have bought i just pass it by. KMART you missed a sale.

 

[Säntis]

Ok I am playing devils advocate , everything stolen isn’t covered by k mart, it is paid for by us. At 83 it’s more than a nuisance to have to wait. But I do what is needed because there is so much theft. I read that in the Netherlands in a particular store had computers that hone in on suspicious customers and send in a secret shopper.

Shoplifting In Australia Has Become A $100 Billion Problem For Retailers.20 Nov 2022.
I just googled that.
It seems to me perfectly OK, to have your bag(s) checked at the exit and the contents compared with the receipt. In the Philippines, there are no self service checkouts. The cashier packs the items in a bag, seals the bag with a stapler and staples the receipt to the bag, If there are more than 1 bag, they write the number of bags on the receipt. As you exit the supermarket or department store, there is a guard who checks the receipt against the number of bags. On large items, they will attach the receipt on the item. The guard then crosses the receipt with a red marker, so the receipt cannot be reused,

This is not a new system as bag checks have been around for years.

Bag check guidelines have been developed by the Australian Retailers Association and have been endorsed by NSW Fair Trading or the Department of Fair Trading in your State or Territory.

The bag check guidelines outline customer and retailer rights and responsibilities as determined by the general law of contract (as the customer entering a shop does so ‘under licence’ from the retailer). They do not form a part of Australian Consumer Law.

Your rights as a customer​

• You have the right to know before entry that a shop conducts bag checks. Signage must be clearly displayed at the entrance/s to the shop.
• Store personnel are only allowed to look in your bag. They are not allowed to touch the contents inside. However, if you are asked to remove an object in your bag so they can see inside properly, you are expected to cooperate.
• All bags can be checked however, small handbags (the size of A4 paper or smaller) should not be unless the retailer is certain they contain goods from that shop which have not been paid for.
• A retailer is only allowed to detain you and call the police in situations where they are sure an offence has been committed.
• If shop staff forcibly detain or search you and you have not committed an offence, you are entitled to make a complaint to store management or NSW Police or Police in your State or Territory.

Although you have rights as a customer, you should be aware of the guidelines that protect the retailer. They are:

• If you enter a store with signage clearly advising bag checks as a condition of entry, you are agreeing to this condition of entry and therefore, a bag check.
• The retailer’s right to check your bags also includes checking cartons, parcels or any other container you are carrying that could reasonably conceal goods.
• If you refuse to allow shop staff to check your bags, you can be asked to leave the shop and not return.

 

[Lucinda]

I could never understand, why years ago, K. Mart removed the registers at the front of my local store, to relocate them in the middle of the store.

To me this was a stupid move and only encouraged more theft. I have left many negative feedbacks on their website for this move.

At our local K. Mart, we used to have the Service Desk and the registers at the front of the store. This worked perfectly for everyone. Now the Service Desk is located at the very back of the store, and the registes clog up the middle of the store.

Whichever clown in K. Mart decided this type of layout would make for a happy shopping experience, was sadly mistaken. They have ruined perfectly good stores and angered customers in the process.

K. Mart have only themselves to blame, when angry customers refuse to show their receipts.

 

[Pam White]

When our Kmart store swapped to the new lay out, I looked around for the checkouts. I saw a large round circle suspended from the ceiling. It said pay here. So I walked over and stood underneath it. Not a checkout in site. I had to ask another shopper where the checkouts were. They were hidden behind shelves. Then as others have said, you have to show your docket and shopping on the way out! Total lunacy. I do wish who ever thought of this "bright" idea would admit they were wrong and change back to the original layout.

 

[Lucinda]

Pam, I totally agree.

I can see no benefit at all from having registers in the middle of the store, where we are herded through barriers, like a mob of cattle ......... only to be treated like thieves on our way out of the store.

 

[Sharon55]

Neither of my Kmarts do it but I wouldn't care if they did, Costco do it butno properly, got home one day with my daughter and she had bought bottles of wine which were at the bottom of the trolley, we hadn't been charged and the checking person had not picked it up !

 

[janellen]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

I haven’t shopped there for years, not liking the layout of my nearest Kmart nor having my bags searched.

 

[Citizen]

If stores put in place self serve then hire staff to check receipts why not just keep staff at the register

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

View attachment 14099

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

 

[Eccafrog]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

View attachment 14099

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

And that is the reason I avoid KMart. What was wrong with what other stores still have - checkout on the way out???

 

[Iggydi]

They could solve the problem by putting the checkouts back near the entrance. Taking away the many self service checkouts and hire staff again. I very rarely go into KMart now as I hate the layout and they usually have 1 person on the checkout. I don't want to use the self service checkouts because they are taking away jobs from the community. Dumb Idea all around.

 

[puzzle solver]

I will never darken the doors of Kmart again since they refused to sell Australia Day merchandise, so it won’t bother me.

Last time I went to K mart was 12 months ago on a wet day to buy an umbrella and I was using public transport. Paid for it and used it to walk to the bus terminal. It was broken when the wind turned it inside out. Never again will I step foot in K mart again. They lost my business that day.

 

[Riorita]

There’s no denying that many of us have been comfortable with shopping from the comfort of our homes.

With many of us doing our shopping online during the pandemic, heading back to the store for the odd item or two can be a bit of a slog.

You stock up on everything you need and you can’t wait to get out and take a break.

But just as you're about to leave, you’re suddenly asked to show your receipt and open your bag for inspection…

Well, at least that’s a scene Kmart shoppers are all too familiar with, especially since the retailer added this to its store policy, much to the dismay of shoppers.

View attachment 14099

Kmart’s new checkout policy irked many shoppers. Credit: Shutterstock.

This new checkout process means that customers are made to go through a bit of an annoying inspection line before they can leave the confines of the store.

Many shoppers were quick to take to social media to express their disappointment and annoyance at the unnecessary addition to their already tiring shopping process.

In particular, one woman recalled her experience at a Kmart store and said that she was 'forced to queue up in a second line' just to make it out of the store’s entrance.

Mental health advocate Laura Strehlau was one of the first to take to Twitter and share her anger, arguing that Kmart needed to 'trust people' if it was going to go down that route.

'Our local (Kmart) store has started scanning barcodes at the front and you have to queue to leave after you’ve just queued to serve yourself,' she tweeted.

The post triggered a wave of complaints on Twitter, with many fed-up customers sharing their stories to echo Ms Strehlau’s experiences.

One person pointed out: ‘It’s everywhere. All over NSW as well.’

‘It will last a while; they aren’t going to spend all that money reconfiguring the stores just to change them back in the short term.’

On top of the time wastage, customers said that the extra process was ‘insulting, demeaning and was treating customers like an enemy’.

Kmart is not the only big brand to implement receipt-scanning when leaving the store, with hardware giant Bunnings imposing a similar rule for some time now.

One person who is a relative of a Bunnings employee took to a forum to share why this 'annoying' procedure exists.

They explained: ‘My husband works for Bunnings, theft is a huge problem.’

'The reason they stamp the receipts is to stop people from buying items, putting them in the car and returning (with the) receipt in hand and then picking up the same items again.'

'My husband often works on the gate, he checks the vehicles as they leave. He could write a book on what some (people) get up to.'

It’s certainly a polarising issue that has sparked quite a heated discussion online. On one hand, it’s understandable that Kmart is interested in preventing theft - after all, it’s no small issue and can cost big businesses big bucks.

But we can also understand why many customers are unwilling to wait in an extra queue just to prove they’ve paid.

‘They can do what they like but it’s ridiculous and last time I checked customers are the people that generate business,’ Ms Strehlau commented in response to a critic who backed the retailer’s right to examine customers' receipts.

‘In a cost of living crisis it’s best they try and keep those customers.’

This is not the first time Kmart has come under fire for this issue. We previously covered a story where shoppers made fun of the system on TikTok, with many voicing out their annoyance over the fact that the store layout made checking out complicated and awkward.

​

A Kmart representative previously confirmed that no matter how shoppers made their purchases, a bag check was a requirement for leaving store premises.

The spokesperson said: ‘Like many retailers, it is a condition of entry across all our stores that if requested, customers present any bags and receipt for checking before leaving the store.’

‘This is a standard procedure that occurs regardless of how a customer makes their purchase, whether it be from our service desk, self-service check-outs or if they have been assisted by a team member.’

Key Takeaways

• Customers are outraged over Kmart's new store procedure, which forces them to queue up in a second line to exit the store.
• The post quickly struck a chord online, with many sharing their own experiences.
• Bunnings is another big brand that scans customers' receipts upon exiting.
• Kmart has defended the system, saying it is a condition of entry across all its stores.

What’s your opinion on this issue? Have you been affected by this new system? Share your experiences in the comments below.

I have no problem showing my bag...done it for years...shopping wears you out...easy Fix..do it on line..or just tell yourself I will enjoy this day out !!! Stop..have a coffee...sit on a bench just watch people go by....(eye excise ) rest awhile....if retired etc...what's YOUR hurry??? Whatever it is it shall wait for you!!!!
Learn to relax...take it in your stride ENJOY THE DAY...LOT OF PEOPLE WOULD LIKE TO BE IN YOUR SHOES .....TO DO THIS...
WITHOUT WORRY

 

[Lucinda]

Usually I agree with taking a relaxed attitude to shopping, but when stores like K.Mart remodel their store to make it more difficult for customers to do their shopping in a relaxed environment, I get cranky.

The old way of going to the checkout at the front of the store, then leaving with your purchases was easy.

This new fangled way of putting registers in the middle of the store, does nothing but anger customers.

Not good enough K. Mart.

 

[Gsr]

I agree that having all checkouts in the middle of a store is the dumbest idea anyone ever came up with, it is an open invitation for dishonest customers to steal. As for lining up to have your receipt and bag checked at the door there is nothing to stop people just walking out without waiting, staff members can’t do anything about it if customers just keep walking. Maybe customers need to start doing this at k mart, it might make them realise what a stupid idea it is having registers in the middle of the shop. I work for Bunnings and most of our registers are at store exit points, we check receipts only if the customer hasn’t paid at a front register. We still get customers who walk straight past and refuse to show a receipt or bag but we are trained to just let them go rather than risk putting ourselves in the firing line for verbal or physical altercations. All stores have coverage for theft built into their profit margins.

 

[enna49]

Always wondered what KMart was thinking when they moved the checkouts to the middle of the store. That was just asking for theft.... Feel the only way to stop this theft is to bring back checkouts, there will still be theft as people who think it is their right to not pay for anything will find a way,...