WALMART has decided to abandon self-checkout machines in stores where theft is widespread.
A store in Cleveland, Ohio, and another location in Shrewsbury, Missouri, announced they would get rid of technology to improve the in-store shopping experience.
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It turns out that shoppers who frequented both locations say the rise in crime has made them fearful.
However, others expressed disappointment at the removal of the banners, saying traditional checkouts will cause longer queues.
“I’ll probably end up going to a different Walmart because I don’t like having to wait here,” Lean Burchnell, a shopper, told the ABC affiliate. WEWS-TV.
“Especially with all the crime that’s going on here. It’s very scary. It really is,” she added.
Another shopper told the outlet they didn’t think removing the self-checkout lanes would be an improvement.
“Last week, we were standing in the doorway while this guy was getting shocked for stealing a jacket and he had his pockets full of everything he could get his hands on, and I thought, ‘Wow,’” Cory Sheneman said.
Walmart has made several changes regarding the use of self-checkout, including three locations in Albuquerque, New Mexico that have eliminated them completely.
A spokesperson for the major retailer said the changes were made after receiving feedback from staff and customers and observing shopping patterns in the area.
“As part of our announced plans for additional investment and facility improvements nationwide, we have decided to remove self-checkout lanes and replace them with staffed lanes at select locations,” said Brian K. Little. Supermarket News.
“We believe the changes will improve the in-store shopping experience and give our associates the opportunity to provide more personalized and efficient service.”
WORSE
A Walmart in Cleveland, Ohio, is often named as one of the worst in the US.
The Steelyard Commons location was criticized by comedian Mike Polk Jr. on an episode of the Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show.
“We need to do something about the Steelyard Commons Walmart,” Polk Jr. said.
“It’s a disaster, everything is on the ground. It’s absolutely horrible. It’s dangerous.”
To back up his claims, Polk Jr. read negative Yelp reviews about the store, which got a laugh from the hosts.
One review alleged that the store had terrible customer service, which Polk Jr. read aloud.
Latest self-checkout changes
Retailers are evolving their self-checkout strategy in an effort to speed checkout times and reduce theft.
Walmart shoppers were shocked when self-checkout lanes at several locations were made available only to Walmart+ members.
Other customers reported that self-checkout was closed at specific times and more cashiers were offered in its place.
While shoppers feared that shoplifting would fuel the updates, a Walmart spokesperson revealed that store managers are simply experimenting with ways to improve checkout performance.
One bizarre experiment included an RFID-powered self-checkout kiosk that would thwart fiercely contested receipt checks.
However, this test has been discontinued.
At Target, items are being limited in auto-checkout.
Last fall, the brand researched new express self-checkout lanes in 200 stores with 10 items or less for added convenience.
In March 2024, this policy was expanded to 2,000 stores in the US.
“I asked an employee where the laundry detergent was and he said ‘in the laundry detergent aisle’ and walked away,” he read.
“I honestly don’t think he was trying to be rude, I think he legitimately thought he answered my question and we ended the exchange.”
Walmart has often been criticized by shoppers for a variety of reasons, such as long lines, blocked items, and receipt checks.
One customer remained defiant by refusing to have his receipt checked upon leaving the store.
Others criticized the retailer for locking small items, such as pens and energy drinks, behind anti-theft glass.
The US Sun has reached out to Walmart for comment.
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