The real reason Walmart, Target and Costco are axing more self-checkouts — as states and NYC push limits
Walmart is eliminating self-checkout machines in some stores, citing customer service as the reason, but experts say the real reason is to combat theft. Other retailers, including Dollar General and Sam's Club, have also removed or plan to remove self-checkout systems.
Walmart is removing self-checkout machines from some stores, continuing its experiment with automation. A company spokesperson said the change aims to improve the checkout experience and enable associates to provide more personalized customer service. However, experts say the real reason is to combat theft, as self-checkout kiosks are vulnerable to shoplifting. A Lending Tree survey found that 69% of self-checkout users believe it makes it easier to steal, and 27% have purposefully taken an item without scanning. Other retailers, such as Dollar General and Sam's Club, have also removed or plan to remove self-checkout systems. Legislators in several US states are pushing for stricter regulations on self-checkout systems.
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