Walmart is testing a new policy in certain stores by removing self-checkout lanes. The retail giant has implemented the change in a store in St. Louis, Missouri, and one in Cleveland, Ohio, as part of a larger plan to make improvements to several facilities across the US. According to officials, the move is intended to enhance the customer experience. Customer shoplifting, which accounts for a significant portion of retail shrinkage, may have also contributed to the decision.
The change has elicited mixed reactions from shoppers. On a St. Louis Reddit thread, users expressed their displeasure with the new policy, indicating that they may no longer frequent that particular store due to the inconvenience of long checkout lines. Others voiced their preference for self-checkout as a time-saving measure, expressing concern that their shopping trips may now be lengthier.
On the other hand, some customers acknowledged the potential benefits of eliminating self-checkout in terms of crime reduction. They pointed out the discomfort of being scrutinized by off-duty police officers and having their bags inspected upon leaving the store, suggesting that the new policy may create a more comfortable and less intimidating shopping environment. Additionally, some expressed hope that the change could lead to the creation of more jobs at the stores.
