Self Check Out. What is all the hype about?

Self checkout, hype or here to stay?

What is self checkout?

Self checkout is an automated process that enables shoppers to scan, bag and pay for their purchases without human assistance. Typically, a self-scanning checkout lane looks very much like a traditional checkout lane except that the shopper interacts with a computers user interface instead of with a store employee.

What are the benefits of self checkout?

Increased Security. Most self checkouts offer different levels of security that deter against theft and human error (including video cameras, bagging station with weigh scale and an attendant).

Reduced shrinkage. Self service checkout users are reporting significantly lower shrink rates compared with conventional lanes

Better Use of Labor. Larger retailers can reduce front end labor costs by as much as 120-150 man hours per week.

Increased Throughput. Self service stations can handle 120 - 140 customers per hour and significantly increase throughput during peak periods while decreasing pressure on conventional checkout lanes.

Customer Loyalty. Shoppers appreciate not having to wait in a checkout line.

Expanded Selling Space and Display Areas. Retailers with self scanning systems have more room to add checkout lanes for product displays.

High Return on Investment High Return on Investment. Self Check out is cost effective and a sound investment. U-Scan users report an average payback in 9 - 12 months.

Self check out, personalized.

Recently introduced to the market is the concept of personal self check. One of the first companies to utilize the concept is Fujitsu with their U-SCAN Shopper. Personal self checkout allows the customer to scan items as they put them into their cart, look up items in a store directory and receive detailed product information directly to a their cart.

From a marketing perspective the personal self check device mounted on shopping cart out allows one to one messaging to be delivered right to the shopper. Depending on the model of hardware the retailer is using the customer may also scan a loyalty card at the cart to receive special offers based on their purchasing behavior. The functionality is available due to the wireless connectivity built into the self check out device.

The personal self checkout will allow customers to make informed decisions and save time while shopping, for retailers they see increased margins and market more effectively.

Are consumers accepting self checkout?

“Self-service innovation is rapidly growing and changing with no sign of slowing down. Research indicates that customers have moved from acceptance of self-service choices to demand of the technology. Clearly, it is no longer a question of whether to implement the technology, but rather where and how to do so for the most impact on customer service and return on investment
www.selfcheck.org