Retail Giants Reevaluate Self-Checkout Policies Amid Theft Concerns

Walmart and Target adjust self-checkout access, aiming to balance theft prevention with customer convenience.

Walmart and Target are adjusting their self-checkout policies, with Walmart limiting some lanes to Walmart+ subscribers and Spark drivers.
The changes aim to reduce theft, known as 'shrink,' and improve checkout efficiency, but have sparked customer frustration over longer wait times.
Walmart's self-checkout strategy varies by store, allowing managers to tailor approaches based on local needs and feedback.
Despite the adjustments, Walmart and other retailers continue to explore self-checkout innovations, including scan-and-go technology and exit technology enhancements.
Consumer preferences for self-checkout vary by age, with younger shoppers showing a higher preference for the convenience.