Walmart is one of the most well-known retail stores in North America, if not internationally. They’re known for their discount prices and, once upon a time, great customer service. Within the last few years, there’s been a mixed bag of reactions to newly implemented methods. For example, the self-checkout, which a location in Ontario, Canada, had to shut down due to a rise in thefts. Interestingly, they aren’t the only store that’s had to take drastic measures, facing similar problems.
Enforcing Self-Checkout
Almost everyone has heard of or seen a Walmart store near them. The retailer with a reputation for their affordable prices opened in 1962 and has since taken off globally. Once a leading example of customer and employee satisfaction, the store has undergone numerous changes. From rumors that their “brand name” products are actually cheaper, less well-made versions to the mixed reaction to self-checkout lines, Walmart has been no stranger to controversy. Most recently, has been shifting to using more and more self check out kiosks, with some locations piloting 100% self-checkout.
However, it seems that going totally “self-checkout” may not be ideal because Walmart and other stores seem to be facing a rise in theft.
Shutting Down Self-Checkout
Despite Walmart’s announcement to increase the number of self-checkout stands, patrons recently noticed a reduction in self-checkout stands in an Ontario city. According to a curious patron, and Reddit user, the reason for this change has to do with rising theft and came “at the request of corporate” offices. The store will now offer, as it once did, more “full service” lines, eliminating self-checkout lines.
Apparently, the location also posted some signage, explaining a bit about the changes. “We are pleased to announce the test of the full-serve experience starting Saturday, July 29th. During this test, our associates will be available to scan all items including those being processed in the area known as our self-checkout,” it read. “We look forward to interacting with you on a more one-on-one basis. We appreciate your patience and understanding during the operation of this test.”
Walmart getting rid self checkout
by u/carlsroch in ottawa
The Public Responds
To further prevent theft, Walmart has recruited the help of security guards, who’re not only there to handle attempted theft but will be doing “random receipt checks” to ensure people have paid for everything they intend to take home. Interestingly, or unsurprisingly, this change too, has gotten mixed responses from Walmart shoppers. “I, for one, like the self-checkouts. Very convenient when only grabbing a few things and saves me from interacting with people,” one Redditor responded.
“The self-checkout is always faster and more convenient when you’re only buying a few items and there’s never usually a lineup,” said another.
On the other hand, many thought that self-checkout lines should go back to the way they used to be. “So why don’t they just reopen the regular checkout lines? Sounds like a stupid system. Canadian Tire had self-checkouts for about six months and then quickly got rid of them because they knew it was easy to steal,” one person wrote. It would appear there is another sentiment felt by disgruntled customers regarding the self-checkout lines. Many customers feel it’s not their job or responsibility to perform the duties a human cashier would usually do.
In contrast, a Canadian spokesperson for Walmart disclosed that self-checkout lines will continue to operate at all stores but has also returned to “typical staffing for this location.”
Read: Nobody likes self-checkout. Here’s why it’s everywhere
Preventative Measures
Retail theft has become an increasing problem. Whether it be from fewer consequences of petty theft or other socio-economic issues. One report claims that many American companies are seeing so much theft that an estimated $95 billion has been lost.
Closing Self-Checkout is One Method
As such, many companies are taking drastic measures to minimize this issue. Some have begun locking up their products behind cases so that associate assistance is required. Many have installed surveillance cameras or hired onsite security. Others have placed locks on carts or implemented a fee to use them. Another example includes security tags that will go off if they are not properly removed. According to the New York Times, 69 percent of stores saw an increase in problems regarding profit loss and theft in 2021. Retailers like Target, Nike, CVS, Walgreens, and even designer stores like Louis Vuitton are among those with the highest calculated loss of profits.
Meanwhile, the rise in theft has become so notable for Walmart that the CEO announced in December of 2022 that they would begin closing down locations altogether. He also explained that it would inflate prices even more. Additionally, plans to close all locations in Portland, Oregon, were announced in March of 2023. Although, in that case, more than just theft was factored into the company’s decision. Sadly, Nike and REI have made similar cuts in the city of Portland.
While some people feel it’s faster and more convenient, others feel it’s not their job to do. Either way, self-checkout lines seem to be causing massive debates and even larger financial issues for companies. With evidence pointing to higher company profits, it’s not unlikely that customer pushback in certain areas will continue to become more prominent. Especially when people are having a harder time keeping up with inflation.
Keep Reading: Michigan Man Charged With Swapping Barcodes To Steal From Walmart Self-Checkout
Sources
- “Walmart.” Britannica
- “Nike battling $95 billion annual retail theft in stores, warehouses, even trains.” Econo Times. February 23, 2023.
- “Walmart to close all stores in one city due to record-breaking rise in theft during US retail bloodbath.” The Sun. Forrest McFarland. March 4, 2023.
- “Walmart Location in Ontario to Shut Down Self-Checkout After Rise in Theft.” Blogto. Kimia Afshar Mehrabi. 2023.
- “Walmart CEO warns company will close stores if theft doesn’t slow down.” Insider. Ben Tobin December 6, 2022.