Self-checkout seems to be on its way out.
Target has decided to eliminate self-checkout stations in their stores following reports of criminals using these kiosks to carry out thefts.
Last March, the chain mentioned plans to restrict self-checkouts to just 10 items and started limiting or even removing these kiosks due to complaints about their reliability and concerns over rising theft.
In tandem with cutting back on self-checkout options, Target will increase the number of traditional checkout lanes available to shoppers.
Interestingly, a Reddit user recently posted pictures showing a large empty space in their local Target where a self-checkout station used to be. They noted, “The Target near me has completely gotten rid of self-checkout.”
Responses poured in, with many claiming their own Targets had made similar changes.
Shoppers are expressing frustration over the increased wait times for employees to scan their items. One commenter sighed, “I hate this… I just want to get my groceries without putting in extra effort.”
Another noted their poor experience, recalling how it took nearly half an hour to scan a simple flashlight during a recent visit.
One more expressed disappointment, stating, “I really dislike going through a manned register. Self-checkout was always my preference.”
These changes might not sit well with customers, but they’re also a response to shifting consumer behavior. During the pandemic, many people favored self-checkout to minimize contact with others.
The decision to phase out self-checkout is also connected to the rising issue of organized retail crime that has been affecting Target and countless other retailers across the country, forcing some to close their doors.
For example, a burglar in California managed to exploit Target’s self-checkout system, swiping over $60,000 worth of merchandise during around 100 visits.
In New York, retailers are feeling the strain of these shoplifting rings, which have grown to cost about $4.4 billion each year and are fostering a shadow resale market.
Data shows that shoplifting incidents in New York City rose by 64% between June 2019 and June 2023, according to the Criminal Justice Council.
Thieves often sell stolen goods on online resale platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace, finding a place in illegal pawn shops as well.
