In the years preceding the pandemic, retail stores were beginning to install and integrate self-checkout systems. Larger retailers had already installed self-checkouts, but adoption was slower for small businesses, mainly for budgetary and logistical reasons.
When the pandemic began, however, self-checkout integration went into hyperdrive. Wary customers wanted a fast shopping experience with minimal contact. At the same time, it became difficult to hire and retain retail employees. Self-service technologies allowed retailers to stay open with fewer staff, while still meeting customer needs.
Now that the pandemic-era regulations and fears have mostly subsided, it seems that self-service is here to stay. Here’s why that’s a good thing.
Benefits of Self-Checkout for Customers and Staff
Convenience
Today’s retail customers want to get in and out of the store quickly. If they get stuck in a slow-moving checkout line, they’ll leave with negative feelings about their shopping experience. Stores should explore a blended service approach – with helpful store associates and easy self-service – to meet customer expectations.
Learn How to Increase Sales in the Checkout Line
Customization
Self-service point of sale is widely customizable. You can install a simple self-checkout, or integrate an omnichannel solutions like contactless payment and curbside pickup. It’s easy to start small and add more later.
Connection
The employment market is tight, and shows no signs of loosening. If your business is short-staffed, you want valuable employees on the sales floor helping customers, not stuck behind the checkout counter. Self-service point of sale allows you to improve the customer experience.
Could self-checkouts help your business? Give Retail Tech a call to find the best self-service option for your unique needs.
Retail Tech carries a wide variety of new and refurbished POS hardware and equipment. We offer installation and staging, retail point of sale system repairs, and more. If you need help choosing a hybrid POS solution, contact our POS systems specialists for help finding the perfect point of sale solution for your retail store, restaurant or other small business.
Source: Retail Info Systems, “Self-Checkout Prevails in the New Blended Service Approach”
