November 13, 2023 Supermarket chain, Booths is axing almost all of its self-scan machines in favor of human cashiers. The company, which operates 28 stores in northern England, says the decision is in response to customer feedback.

Booths customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the self-scan machines, citing their unreliability, slowness, and impersonal nature. The company also stocks a lot of loose items, such as fruits, vegetables, and bakery goods, which can be difficult to scan at self-checkouts.

Despite the growing popularity of self-service checkouts, Booths is committed to providing its customers with a personalized shopping experience. The company believes that human cashiers can better assist customers with their needs and provide a more enjoyable shopping experience.

The company will retain self-checkouts in two of its stores in the Lake District to meet the needs of customers during busy periods. However, the vast majority of Booths stores will now have staffed checkouts.

The sources for this piece include an article in BBC.