Standing in line at the shops can be a frustrating experience, particularly when you have places to be and things to do.

It's an all-too-common experience for many of us. Every store seems to have its own ideas on how to do things, whether it’s self-checkouts or multiple queues. Some Aussies who shop at Kmart claim their checkout process is much easier than at most other stores.

But not everyone agrees. One such shopper has taken to social media to voice his concern over Kmart's unique checkout arrangement.

The decision by Kmart to relocate checkouts to the centre of stores has sparked debate. Credit: Facebook.

Rather than placing its checkouts at the front, Kmart moved them to the centre of the store a few years ago to smooth out queues, reduce congestion, and improve the overall shopping experience. For whatever reason, this change has not been implemented in all stores which leaves some customers feeling dissatisfied when they visit a different store to usual.

In these stores, the move means that Kmart staff and security now check everyone’s bags and purchases before they leave the store.

The shopper asked: ‘Why put the checkout area in the middle of the store if you’re going to treat EVERY SHOPPER like a shoplifter on the way out?’

Customers have reacted strongly to the Facebook post, with many sharing their own experiences and opinions.

Many shoppers agreed with the post and called out Kmart for making the checkout process ‘more inconvenient’ instead of solving the issue.

One user pointed out: ‘It’s so frustrating. They put 15-year-old kids on the door and expect them to be security.’

‘It’s horrendous on both sides of that transaction.’

‘I’m with you, mate. It’s the DUMBEST idea they’ve ever had. Now some Kmarts have self-service checkouts near the door,’ another said.

A third chimed in: ‘I know right. I totally agree with you.’

However, not all customers had a problem with the situation. Some argued that Kmart’s decision to move their checkouts was actually a smart one.

One person argued: ‘I used to think it was nuts but it makes sense.’

‘In the old days, the only way out of Kmart was via the registers whether you purchased something or not. It caused a bottleneck and required more staff attention than posting one person at the exit.’

They further explained that moving the checkout to the centre of the store encouraged more people to visit more places in the store, giving them more of a chance of discovering something additional they may have forgotten to buy.

As we mentioned earlier, the store layout may vary per location. While Kmart has not confirmed that all stores will change to this layout, it has been in many stores for years.

According to a Kmart spokesperson, the decision to relocate checkouts was aimed at minimising queues and clutter at store entrances to provide a pleasant and convenient shopping experience for both in-store and online customers.

This layout is more spacious and open, without the congestion that can occur when registers are placed at the front of the store, particularly during busy periods like Christmas.

It is a standard procedure for all customers to have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase. This requirement applies to all Kmart stores.

The spokesperson assured that Kmart is committed to serving customers in various ways and looks forward to continuing to do so in the future.

Key Takeaways

• A Kmart shopper has voiced concern on social media about Kmart's unique checkout arrangement in the centre of the store, sparking a debate.
• Many customers agree and call out Kmart for making the checkout process more inconvenient, while others argue it was a smart decision.
• Kmart's decision to move its checkouts was aimed to minimise queues and clutter at store entrances, providing a pleasant and convenient shopping experience.
• Kmart ensures that all customers have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase, as part of their standard procedure.

Members, what do you think about the way Kmart has set up its checkouts? Do you agree with the customer who thinks it places all customers under suspicion? Or do you think it’s a smart move that encourages customers to window shop on their way out?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

 

[Catherines]

Standing in line at the shops can be a frustrating experience, particularly when you have places to be and things to do.

It's an all-too-common experience for many of us. Every store seems to have its own ideas on how to do things, whether it’s self-checkouts or multiple queues. Some Aussies who shop at Kmart claim their checkout process is much easier than at most other stores.

But not everyone agrees. One such shopper has taken to social media to voice his concern over Kmart's unique checkout arrangement.

The decision by Kmart to relocate checkouts to the centre of stores has sparked debate. Credit: Facebook.

Rather than placing its checkouts at the front, Kmart moved them to the centre of the store a few years ago to smooth out queues, reduce congestion, and improve the overall shopping experience. For whatever reason, this change has not been implemented in all stores which leaves some customers feeling dissatisfied when they visit a different store to usual.

In these stores, the move means that Kmart staff and security now check everyone’s bags and purchases before they leave the store.

The shopper asked: ‘Why put the checkout area in the middle of the store if you’re going to treat EVERY SHOPPER like a shoplifter on the way out?’

Customers have reacted strongly to the Facebook post, with many sharing their own experiences and opinions.

Many shoppers agreed with the post and called out Kmart for making the checkout process ‘more inconvenient’ instead of solving the issue.

One user pointed out: ‘It’s so frustrating. They put 15-year-old kids on the door and expect them to be security.’

‘It’s horrendous on both sides of that transaction.’

‘I’m with you, mate. It’s the DUMBEST idea they’ve ever had. Now some Kmarts have self-service checkouts near the door,’ another said.

A third chimed in: ‘I know right. I totally agree with you.’

However, not all customers had a problem with the situation. Some argued that Kmart’s decision to move their checkouts was actually a smart one.

One person argued: ‘I used to think it was nuts but it makes sense.’

‘In the old days, the only way out of Kmart was via the registers whether you purchased something or not. It caused a bottleneck and required more staff attention than posting one person at the exit.’

They further explained that moving the checkout to the centre of the store encouraged more people to visit more places in the store, giving them more of a chance of discovering something additional they may have forgotten to buy.

As we mentioned earlier, the store layout may vary per location. While Kmart has not confirmed that all stores will change to this layout, it has been in many stores for years.

According to a Kmart spokesperson, the decision to relocate checkouts was aimed at minimising queues and clutter at store entrances to provide a pleasant and convenient shopping experience for both in-store and online customers.

This layout is more spacious and open, without the congestion that can occur when registers are placed at the front of the store, particularly during busy periods like Christmas.

It is a standard procedure for all customers to have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase. This requirement applies to all Kmart stores.

The spokesperson assured that Kmart is committed to serving customers in various ways and looks forward to continuing to do so in the future.

Key Takeaways

• A Kmart shopper has voiced concern on social media about Kmart's unique checkout arrangement in the centre of the store, sparking a debate.
• Many customers agree and call out Kmart for making the checkout process more inconvenient, while others argue it was a smart decision.
• Kmart's decision to move its checkouts was aimed to minimise queues and clutter at store entrances, providing a pleasant and convenient shopping experience.
• Kmart ensures that all customers have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase, as part of their standard procedure.

Members, what do you think about the way Kmart has set up its checkouts? Do you agree with the customer who thinks it places all customers under suspicion? Or do you think it’s a smart move that encourages customers to window shop on their way out?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Had to laugh at all those "indignant " people that complained about the registers being located centre store really? I think its pretty convenient! Also to the shoppers who said they felt like shoplifters...hmmmm feeling a little guilty there are we?? If that's all you have to whinge about how about you go get a life or better still shop elsewhere if you sensitive souls can't handle it.

Had to laugh at all those "indignant " people that complained about the registers being located centre store really? I think its pretty convenient! Also to the shoppers who said they felt like shoplifters...hmmmm feeling a little guilty there are we?? If that's all you have to whinge about how about you go get a life or better still shop elsewhere if you sensitive souls can't handle it.

Lisa, my thoughts exactly. I'm not particularly in favour of checkouts in the centre of the store but will go ahead with it if in some way they can stop shoplifting with exit checks of bags as well; but if you have nothing to hide then why take objection to a quick check of your bags at the exit? Perhaps the regular shoplifters may think they can use the centre check out and then continue 'shopping' (or shop-lifting) before exiting. About checking a scooter bag - what's the objection? Nothing to hide, don't take offence as staff are doing their job. If they don't check every bag they could lose their jobs. Go shop somewhere else if you don't like being checked like everyone else. Yes, get a life people - we have too much shop lifting these days so it's in the company's interests to have bags checked.

 

[Penny4]

I still like Kmart, even when the registers changed to the middle.
I was there the other day, buying their stainless steel straws. Bargain at $6 for 10.

 

[charmstrong]

Now when it is busy you have to queue twice to get out of the store. A ridiculous situation.

 

[Fat&fancy]

Had to laugh at all those "indignant " people that complained about the registers being located centre store really? I think its pretty convenient! Also to the shoppers who said they felt like shoplifters...hmmmm feeling a little guilty there are we?? If that's all you have to whinge about how about you go get a life or better still shop elsewhere if you sensitive souls can't handle it.

WELL SAID!

 

[Jest]

Standing in line at the shops can be a frustrating experience, particularly when you have places to be and things to do.

It's an all-too-common experience for many of us. Every store seems to have its own ideas on how to do things, whether it’s self-checkouts or multiple queues. Some Aussies who shop at Kmart claim their checkout process is much easier than at most other stores.

But not everyone agrees. One such shopper has taken to social media to voice his concern over Kmart's unique checkout arrangement.

The decision by Kmart to relocate checkouts to the centre of stores has sparked debate. Credit: Facebook.

Rather than placing its checkouts at the front, Kmart moved them to the centre of the store a few years ago to smooth out queues, reduce congestion, and improve the overall shopping experience. For whatever reason, this change has not been implemented in all stores which leaves some customers feeling dissatisfied when they visit a different store to usual.

In these stores, the move means that Kmart staff and security now check everyone’s bags and purchases before they leave the store.

The shopper asked: ‘Why put the checkout area in the middle of the store if you’re going to treat EVERY SHOPPER like a shoplifter on the way out?’

Customers have reacted strongly to the Facebook post, with many sharing their own experiences and opinions.

Many shoppers agreed with the post and called out Kmart for making the checkout process ‘more inconvenient’ instead of solving the issue.

One user pointed out: ‘It’s so frustrating. They put 15-year-old kids on the door and expect them to be security.’

‘It’s horrendous on both sides of that transaction.’

‘I’m with you, mate. It’s the DUMBEST idea they’ve ever had. Now some Kmarts have self-service checkouts near the door,’ another said.

A third chimed in: ‘I know right. I totally agree with you.’

However, not all customers had a problem with the situation. Some argued that Kmart’s decision to move their checkouts was actually a smart one.

One person argued: ‘I used to think it was nuts but it makes sense.’

‘In the old days, the only way out of Kmart was via the registers whether you purchased something or not. It caused a bottleneck and required more staff attention than posting one person at the exit.’

They further explained that moving the checkout to the centre of the store encouraged more people to visit more places in the store, giving them more of a chance of discovering something additional they may have forgotten to buy.

As we mentioned earlier, the store layout may vary per location. While Kmart has not confirmed that all stores will change to this layout, it has been in many stores for years.

According to a Kmart spokesperson, the decision to relocate checkouts was aimed at minimising queues and clutter at store entrances to provide a pleasant and convenient shopping experience for both in-store and online customers.

This layout is more spacious and open, without the congestion that can occur when registers are placed at the front of the store, particularly during busy periods like Christmas.

It is a standard procedure for all customers to have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase. This requirement applies to all Kmart stores.

The spokesperson assured that Kmart is committed to serving customers in various ways and looks forward to continuing to do so in the future.

Key Takeaways

• A Kmart shopper has voiced concern on social media about Kmart's unique checkout arrangement in the centre of the store, sparking a debate.
• Many customers agree and call out Kmart for making the checkout process more inconvenient, while others argue it was a smart decision.
• Kmart's decision to move its checkouts was aimed to minimise queues and clutter at store entrances, providing a pleasant and convenient shopping experience.
• Kmart ensures that all customers have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase, as part of their standard procedure.

Members, what do you think about the way Kmart has set up its checkouts? Do you agree with the customer who thinks it places all customers under suspicion? Or do you think it’s a smart move that encourages customers to window shop on their way out?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

click and collect then no problems.

 

[Mina vriesekolk]

I do not like the check out in the middle and you have to zig zag before you get to the check out with all the bad sweets on each sides. I will not be tempted to buy these items , I’m sure many will. Another thing is , they did not sell any Australia Day items, so my husband now refuse to shop at Kmart.

 

[Nana Zorak]

I have only once visited a Costco store when visiting my son in Melbourne. I don't buy in bulk so they are no good to me plus I can't afford to pay the joining fee or travel to the nearest one to me which is many miles away.

 

[grannyjenn]

I have no objection to a checkout in the middle of the store. Nor do I have a problem with showing my receipt as I leave the store. But I what I do rather object to is the fact that now the person at the door has to register the barcode on the receipt. That DOES hold everybody up.

 

[Ian Crane-Luff]

Standing in line at the shops can be a frustrating experience, particularly when you have places to be and things to do.

It's an all-too-common experience for many of us. Every store seems to have its own ideas on how to do things, whether it’s self-checkouts or multiple queues. Some Aussies who shop at Kmart claim their checkout process is much easier than at most other stores.

But not everyone agrees. One such shopper has taken to social media to voice his concern over Kmart's unique checkout arrangement.

The decision by Kmart to relocate checkouts to the centre of stores has sparked debate. Credit: Facebook.

Rather than placing its checkouts at the front, Kmart moved them to the centre of the store a few years ago to smooth out queues, reduce congestion, and improve the overall shopping experience. For whatever reason, this change has not been implemented in all stores which leaves some customers feeling dissatisfied when they visit a different store to usual.

In these stores, the move means that Kmart staff and security now check everyone’s bags and purchases before they leave the store.

The shopper asked: ‘Why put the checkout area in the middle of the store if you’re going to treat EVERY SHOPPER like a shoplifter on the way out?’

Customers have reacted strongly to the Facebook post, with many sharing their own experiences and opinions.

Many shoppers agreed with the post and called out Kmart for making the checkout process ‘more inconvenient’ instead of solving the issue.

One user pointed out: ‘It’s so frustrating. They put 15-year-old kids on the door and expect them to be security.’

‘It’s horrendous on both sides of that transaction.’

‘I’m with you, mate. It’s the DUMBEST idea they’ve ever had. Now some Kmarts have self-service checkouts near the door,’ another said.

A third chimed in: ‘I know right. I totally agree with you.’

However, not all customers had a problem with the situation. Some argued that Kmart’s decision to move their checkouts was actually a smart one.

One person argued: ‘I used to think it was nuts but it makes sense.’

‘In the old days, the only way out of Kmart was via the registers whether you purchased something or not. It caused a bottleneck and required more staff attention than posting one person at the exit.’

They further explained that moving the checkout to the centre of the store encouraged more people to visit more places in the store, giving them more of a chance of discovering something additional they may have forgotten to buy.

As we mentioned earlier, the store layout may vary per location. While Kmart has not confirmed that all stores will change to this layout, it has been in many stores for years.

According to a Kmart spokesperson, the decision to relocate checkouts was aimed at minimising queues and clutter at store entrances to provide a pleasant and convenient shopping experience for both in-store and online customers.

This layout is more spacious and open, without the congestion that can occur when registers are placed at the front of the store, particularly during busy periods like Christmas.

It is a standard procedure for all customers to have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase. This requirement applies to all Kmart stores.

The spokesperson assured that Kmart is committed to serving customers in various ways and looks forward to continuing to do so in the future.

Key Takeaways

• A Kmart shopper has voiced concern on social media about Kmart's unique checkout arrangement in the centre of the store, sparking a debate.
• Many customers agree and call out Kmart for making the checkout process more inconvenient, while others argue it was a smart decision.
• Kmart's decision to move its checkouts was aimed to minimise queues and clutter at store entrances, providing a pleasant and convenient shopping experience.
• Kmart ensures that all customers have their bags and receipts checked before exiting the store, regardless of how they made their purchase, as part of their standard procedure.

Members, what do you think about the way Kmart has set up its checkouts? Do you agree with the customer who thinks it places all customers under suspicion? Or do you think it’s a smart move that encourages customers to window shop on their way out?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

More likely to encourage impulse buying

 

[mylittletibbies]

I used to shop at Kmart regularly until they moved the checkouts to the middle of the store and then I had to queue to leave the store in order to have my bag and receipt checked, they even check the carrier of the back of my mobility scooter! I have never stolen anything in my life and Kmart's detailed checking of everywhere I could possibly have hidden something is annoying!

I understand your frustration, but these stores loose millions of dollars to shoplifters every year, that we the customers end up paying for.
Surely it's not that much of a problem, chill out and enjoy the day. There are so many worse things happening in the world to let yourself get upset by such inconsequential things.

 

[mylittletibbies]

If you have nothing to hide then why are you so uptight.
All stores have a sign stating it is a condition of entry that bags will be checked, so you are actually in the wrong. If you don't want to show your bag then don't go in the store.
You should stop being a smart arse and handing out ridiculous advice. If you want to spout the law then you should actually know and understand the law.

I dont open anything for security at any stores. If they detain you its illegal, they have to have seen you take property that is not yours. Just refuse and walk out because if they try to stop you thats assault. I encourage all to do the same thing if you have nothing to hide. Show K Mart how stupid their action

 

[June E]

I shop a KMart quite often, since changing to centre registers I have not had my bags checked once the person at the door just put line through my docket that is all. As for someone having to see someone stealing I presume they have cameras for that I don’t take anything I don’t pay for so none of it bothers me.

 

[Penny4]

My local shopping centre has all 3 supermarkets, Aldi, Coles & Woolworths. If I shop at Coles first and then shop at Aldi, Aldi wants to check my receipt for my goods at the check-out. All 3 supermarkets ask me for my receipt at the check-out, if I have goods that I bought elsewhere. It's the way it is .. due to people stealing. Don't care if Kmart asks to check my receipt.

 

[Cavador2001]

They have no legal right to obligate you to have your bag checked unless you act suspiciosly.

 

[Christenatoomey]

Why not have the same checkout system that Target has? The entrance isn’t blocked by queue’s and the checkouts are to the side and out of the way.

I agree I loathe shopping at Kmart because of where the checkouts are located. Target have got it right. Having to fumble to find your receipt to have it checked before you leave is a pain in …!

 

[Rosscoesmiff]

Sooner go to BigW where they don’t accuse you of being a shoplifter

 

[TomDevine55]

Most large stores have a sign at the front saying they will check bags as you walk out.
If it's a small bag then it doesn't need to be checked .

By checking shopping bags it may help with thieving which will help prevent price rises.

If we go into a store we need to abide by rules

That sign is not legal and has never been. They like everyone else cannot search your bag, they have to call the Police, but they have no right to detain you because if you are innocent then they get charged and K mart gets sued. If you have done nothing wrong, then dont submit.

 

[TomDevine55]

KMart has had their check out in the middle of the store for at least a decade. I don't like it, as it means having to go further into the store when I purchase something that is located near the entry/exit, but I don't lose my head over it.

As for checking receipts and bags, try shopping at Costco! Every shopper has to go through a manned checkout and every trolley and receipt is checked, sometimes in great detail, at the exit. Now THAT is annoying!

That is not legal it is you submitting.

 

[Gsr]

We don’t have a Kmart in the town where I live. The last time I visited Kmart I found the aisles so narrow it was hard to get a single trolley through them, then I had to line up at the checkout in the middle of the shop for ten minutes, then the person on the door wanted to check my bag and receipt, which I refused as by then I just wanted to get out of the store. That would have been close to ten years ago and I have never been back to a k mart. I have done an online order once or twice but will never again go into a k mart store.

 

[DavidEsplin]

Well it's no wonder they inspect bags at the exit when there's so many opportunities to pick up additional items after checking out in the middle of the store. Dumb idea.