A significant number of retail stores are transitioning cash registers to self-service checkout systems, according to a recent report.
Retailers are investing more in self-checkout technology to streamline checkout processes, according to a Zebra Technologies survey of 4,200 international respondents. Nearly 82% of retail decision-makers aim to boost technological investments over the next three years, transforming cash register space into self-checkout areas and creating more room for contactless checkout kiosks.
While fewer than half of shoppers currently make use of self-checkouts, the majority (64%) prefer contactless payment options and the ability to check out anywhere in the store. The survey revealed that 83% of retail employees believe self-checkout kiosks allow them to concentrate on high-priority tasks and better assist customers.
Implementing self-checkout technology effectively is critical in enhancing customer experience, as highlighted by Zebra Technologies, which vendors retail technologies such as mobile computers. Self-checkout and mobile checkout options offer speed and convenience to customers, enabling store associates to focus on serving other customers on the sales floor.
Despite the increasing implementation of self-checkout stations, other reports indicate that these kiosks can have issues for shoppers. According to a Raydiant report released last year, 25.1% of respondents are likely to avoid self-checkout kiosks if they malfunction, and 65% expressed concerns about kiosk cleanliness. On the other hand, 85% of respondents stated that self-checkout stations were quicker than waiting in line.
The global market for self-checkout kiosks is expected to grow significantly, with shipments from self-checkout technology providers predicted to reach over 300,000 by 2027, according to a June RBR report. The international self-checkout kiosk market rose by 11% last year, and U.S. retailers such as Dollar General are piloting self-checkout-only stores at approximately 200 locations this year.
In an effort to improve functionality and address concerns about self-checkout kiosks, retailers are adopting various approaches. Dedicated express lanes catering to customers with fewer items and advanced technology integration that incorporates barcode scanning, weight sensors, AI-powered error detection, and product validation have been introduced. Strategic staffing, data-driven optimization, and regular cleaning schedules also help ensure a smooth self-checkout experience.
- The increasing adoption of self-checkout technology in retail is not just about streamlining checkout processes, but also about promoting contactless payment options and creating more space for technology.
- The AI-powered self-checkout kiosks are not only speeding up the checkout process, but they are also allowing retail employees to focus on high-priority tasks and better assist customers.
- While the growth of self-checkout kiosks is expected in the coming years, with over 300,000 shipments predicted by 2027, concerns about malfunctioning kiosks and cleanliness can still deter some shoppers from using them.
- To improve the functionality and address the concerns of shoppers, retailers are adopting various strategies, such as dedicated express lanes, advanced technology integration, and regular cleaning schedules.
- The implementation of self-checkout technology is not just a retail issue, but a broader topic that involves finance, technology, policy, and the entire industry, as it can have significant impacts on customer experience and the future of retail.
