Shoppers outraged: BIG W's latest in-store feature sparks major backlash—find out why!
- Replies 15
The modern shopping experience constantly evolves, with technology playing an increasingly central role in how we browse, select, and pay for our goods.
However, as BIG W has recently discovered, not all technological advancements are met with open arms. Introducing a new in-store feature has frustrated many customers, prompting backlash across social media platforms.
Some customers have expressed concerns that the feature complicates what was once a straightforward shopping process.
The removal of traditional price scanners in favour of a mobile app that shoppers must download to check the price of items.
This change has been met with significant resistance from customers accustomed to the old system's convenience and simplicity.
Upon visiting a BIG W store, one might now encounter signs prompting them to download the BIG W app to scan items for prices.
This shift towards a digital solution has left many shoppers asking, 'Is there no other way?'
This new requirement is seen as an unnecessary hurdle for those who are less tech-savvy or prefer not to use their smartphones while shopping.
The frustration is palpable among the BIG W customer base, with some shoppers taking to the Old Shops Australia social media group to voice their displeasure.
Comments range from calling the move a 'sneaky tactic' for data harvesting to concerns about the app's practicality in areas with poor in-store reception.
Many have expressed that they 'hate' the change and would prefer the return of the physical scanners.
The issue is particularly pressing for the older generation, who may not be as familiar with downloading and using apps.
Additionally, the problem of unreliable reception within BIG W stores compounds the inconvenience, as shoppers cannot use the app to check prices, leading to frustration at the checkout or the decision to leave items behind.
Despite the outcry, some customers have embraced the change, finding the app a helpful tool that enhances their shopping experience.
These voices, however, seem to be in the minority, with the majority of feedback being negative.
In response to the backlash, BIG W has clarified that the removal of in-store scanners is not a permanent move.
The retailer is upgrading their system, and the app is intended as a temporary solution to assist customers during this transition.
A representative from BIG W stated, 'Our customers have been telling us they want price checkers in our stores, and in response to their feedback, we are upgrading and replacing them across our whole store network.'
In the meantime, customers unable or unwilling to use the app are encouraged to seek assistance from BIG W staff members for price checks.
Have you found it helpful, or has it made your shopping trips more difficult? Your feedback is valuable, not only to us but to retailers who are navigating the balance between innovation and customer satisfaction.
Have you found it helpful, or has it made your shopping trips more difficult? Have you had a similar experience with technology in stores, and how do you feel about this digital shift? Let us know in the comments below.
However, as BIG W has recently discovered, not all technological advancements are met with open arms. Introducing a new in-store feature has frustrated many customers, prompting backlash across social media platforms.
Some customers have expressed concerns that the feature complicates what was once a straightforward shopping process.
The removal of traditional price scanners in favour of a mobile app that shoppers must download to check the price of items.
This change has been met with significant resistance from customers accustomed to the old system's convenience and simplicity.
The removal of in-store price scanners at BIG W has annoyed shoppers, who are now pushed to use the store's app. Credit: Depositphotos
Upon visiting a BIG W store, one might now encounter signs prompting them to download the BIG W app to scan items for prices.
This shift towards a digital solution has left many shoppers asking, 'Is there no other way?'
This new requirement is seen as an unnecessary hurdle for those who are less tech-savvy or prefer not to use their smartphones while shopping.
The frustration is palpable among the BIG W customer base, with some shoppers taking to the Old Shops Australia social media group to voice their displeasure.
Comments range from calling the move a 'sneaky tactic' for data harvesting to concerns about the app's practicality in areas with poor in-store reception.
Many have expressed that they 'hate' the change and would prefer the return of the physical scanners.
The issue is particularly pressing for the older generation, who may not be as familiar with downloading and using apps.
Additionally, the problem of unreliable reception within BIG W stores compounds the inconvenience, as shoppers cannot use the app to check prices, leading to frustration at the checkout or the decision to leave items behind.
Despite the outcry, some customers have embraced the change, finding the app a helpful tool that enhances their shopping experience.
These voices, however, seem to be in the minority, with the majority of feedback being negative.
In response to the backlash, BIG W has clarified that the removal of in-store scanners is not a permanent move.
The retailer is upgrading their system, and the app is intended as a temporary solution to assist customers during this transition.
A representative from BIG W stated, 'Our customers have been telling us they want price checkers in our stores, and in response to their feedback, we are upgrading and replacing them across our whole store network.'
In the meantime, customers unable or unwilling to use the app are encouraged to seek assistance from BIG W staff members for price checks.
Have you found it helpful, or has it made your shopping trips more difficult? Your feedback is valuable, not only to us but to retailers who are navigating the balance between innovation and customer satisfaction.
.png){kind=icon}
