We’re still figuring out self-checkout

There are few things more awkward than a self-checkout machine announcing to the whole store that you’ve placed an “unexpected item in the bagging area,” requiring a human worker to remedy the situation.

Even as two-thirds of shoppers say the machines have failed them, food retailers are adding more tech to the in-store grocery experience, with self-checkout front and center.

• Self-checkout accounted for 30% of US grocery transactions in 2021, up from 18% in 2018.
• Some chains, like Walmart, Kroger, Dollar General, and Albertsons are testing self-checkout-only stores.

The machines, with $14k-$40k price tags, can cut costs for retailers and may be necessary — grocery employee turnover was 48% in 2021. It also offers customers some extra speed and reduced human interaction.

We, for one, are pro-self-checkout because of the hilarious comedy sketches it has inspired.