Sainsbury’s is testing larger self-checkouts with conveyor belts to replace human cashiers. These new self-checkouts have a moving belt for loading groceries and a bigger bagging area. They are similar in size to manned checkouts, aiming to accommodate trolley users.
The trial is taking place in two locations: Cobham in Surrey and Witney in Oxfordshire. Additionally, Sainsbury’s is testing new digital touchscreens to help shoppers locate items in the store, reducing the need to ask staff for assistance.
A spokesman for Sainsbury’s mentioned that the trials in Cobham and Witney are part of the company’s ongoing efforts to offer more choice and convenience to customers and that they are gathering feedback from both staff and shoppers.
Sainsbury’s trials bigger self-checkouts to replace human cashiers#boycottSainsburys
People have the power to determine the kind of world they want to live in by spending their money in shops that promote ethical values. Sainsbury’s is not one of those https://t.co/29PzzCoSNM— Susie McGlue (@susiglu) October 18, 2024
This initiative follows the implementation of barrier systems in several stores, which require customers to scan receipts before exiting. Sainsbury’s chief executive Simon Roberts noted that the industry must find efficiencies due to cost pressures, and the company plans to maintain at least one manned checkout per store.
Roberts highlighted the popularity of self-checkouts, stating that many customers appreciate the faster service. He assured that traditional belted checkouts remain available despite the increase in self-checkouts.
In February, Sainsbury’s announced plans to cut around 1,500 jobs to save £1 billion over three years. The job cuts will affect roles in the Widnes contact centre, in-store bakeries, and some local fulfilment centres. These changes are part of the ‘Next Level Sainsbury’s’ strategy, intending to reinvest the savings into providing better value, quality, and service for customers. The company also aims to adopt a more efficient approach to freshly baking products.
Meanwhile, Asda faced backlash earlier this year for introducing self-checkout-only hours in some stores. The supermarket stated that individual stores could decide their checkout hours, and staff would be available to assist customers if needed.
What Other Media Are Saying
- The Telegraph reports Sainsbury’s trials larger self-checkouts with conveyor belts to boost efficiency and accommodate full trollies, part of its cost-cutting measures amid job reductions.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What is Sainsbury’s testing in their stores?
Sainsbury’s is testing larger self-checkouts with conveyor belts and new digital touchscreens.
Where are the trials for the new self-checkouts taking place?
The trials are in Cobham, Surrey, and Witney, Oxfordshire.
Why is Sainsbury’s implementing these new self-checkouts?
To offer more convenience and choice to customers and gather feedback from staff and shoppers.
Will Sainsbury’s still have manned checkouts?
Yes, Sainsbury’s will maintain at least one manned checkout per store.
What are some reasons behind Sainsbury’s job cuts?
Sainsbury’s plans to cut around 1,500 jobs to save £1 billion over three years and reinvest in better value, quality, and service.