This supermarket's controversial feature further sparks discussion among shoppers
- Replies 43
As the retail world continues to evolve, supermarkets have been seeking ways to streamline the customers' shopping experience.
One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the introduction and expansion of self-checkout systems.
These systems, designed to allow customers to scan and pay for their purchases without a cashier's assistance, have been met with mixed reactions.
The latest feature to hit the self-checkout scene is causing quite a stir among shoppers.
The new feature in question is a security measure that would play back footage of customers during their self-checkout transactions.
This innovation aimed to deter theft—which has been on the rise according to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures.
The report showed a 17 per cent increase in retail theft, with a 'steady increase' in 2023.
Supermarkets like Coles have already implemented this technology to combat the issue. However, it had customers divided.
Some customers appreciated the technological advancements for the sake of security and efficiency.
They saw the usage of CCTVs, electronic article surveillance (EAS), and skip scan technology as a necessary step to protect the store's assets.
These customers valued the quick and easy checkout process, especially when in a rush.
However, a significant portion of the shopping public felt uncomfortable with the level of surveillance at self-service checkouts.
Some shoppers expressed that they felt like supermarket staff rather than customers.
The debate extended beyond privacy concerns to the functionality and staffing of these self-service areas.
A mother and her autistic son shared their self-checkout experience at a Coles supermarket.
The mum shared that the process could have been more intuitive to avoid confusion and the need for further assistance.
With only one supervisor available to help with the mum and her son's issues, customers can be left waiting—which could defeat the purpose of a quick and convenient shopping trip.
The story of the mum and son's encounter with the new self-checkout feature should be a reminder for shoppers across the country.
While technology may be helpful, it is also not foolproof.
Life skills such as shopping and budgeting are essential, and self-checkouts could be a great tool.
However, whenever technology glitches out, it could also lead to frustration and a negative shopping experience.
Supermarkets face the challenge of balancing the need for security with the desire to provide a seamless customer experience.
Are you in favour of the new self-checkout features, or do you long for the days of personal interaction and less surveillance? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below.
One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the introduction and expansion of self-checkout systems.
These systems, designed to allow customers to scan and pay for their purchases without a cashier's assistance, have been met with mixed reactions.
The latest feature to hit the self-checkout scene is causing quite a stir among shoppers.
The new feature in question is a security measure that would play back footage of customers during their self-checkout transactions.
This innovation aimed to deter theft—which has been on the rise according to Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) figures.
The report showed a 17 per cent increase in retail theft, with a 'steady increase' in 2023.
Coles continues to update their self-service checkout counters to combat theft. Image Credit: Shutterstock/Daria Nipot
Supermarkets like Coles have already implemented this technology to combat the issue. However, it had customers divided.
Some customers appreciated the technological advancements for the sake of security and efficiency.
They saw the usage of CCTVs, electronic article surveillance (EAS), and skip scan technology as a necessary step to protect the store's assets.
These customers valued the quick and easy checkout process, especially when in a rush.
However, a significant portion of the shopping public felt uncomfortable with the level of surveillance at self-service checkouts.
Some shoppers expressed that they felt like supermarket staff rather than customers.
The debate extended beyond privacy concerns to the functionality and staffing of these self-service areas.
A mother and her autistic son shared their self-checkout experience at a Coles supermarket.
The mum shared that the process could have been more intuitive to avoid confusion and the need for further assistance.
With only one supervisor available to help with the mum and her son's issues, customers can be left waiting—which could defeat the purpose of a quick and convenient shopping trip.
The story of the mum and son's encounter with the new self-checkout feature should be a reminder for shoppers across the country.
While technology may be helpful, it is also not foolproof.
Life skills such as shopping and budgeting are essential, and self-checkouts could be a great tool.
However, whenever technology glitches out, it could also lead to frustration and a negative shopping experience.
Supermarkets face the challenge of balancing the need for security with the desire to provide a seamless customer experience.
.png){kind=icon}
