New Zealand supermarkets and customers have been buzzing with reactions ever since Booths, a high-end UK chain, announced they would be removing self-checkouts and replacing them with staff-operated tills. While Booths claimed that their reason for the change was due to the machines being slow, unreliable, and impersonal, New Zealand grocery stores have expressed differing opinions on the matter.
Woolworths NZ, one of New Zealand’s leading supermarket brands, stated that they have received positive customer feedback regarding self-checkouts and have no plans to eliminate them. According to Woolworths, providing customers with options on how they purchase their groceries is important, and they believe that self-checkouts offer convenience.
On the other hand, Foodstuffs, another major supermarket company, revealed that self-service checkouts are becoming increasingly popular among their customers. They have no intention of eliminating self-checkouts since many shoppers prefer the quick and efficient experience they provide.
It’s clear that Kiwis have diverse opinions on this matter as well. While some customers expressed their desire for more staffed checkouts to enhance the personal experience, reduce wait times, and create additional job opportunities, others appreciated the convenience and control offered by self-checkouts. Many shoppers still prefer self-checkouts because they save time and allow for a quick in-and-out shopping experience.
Given the mixed responses from New Zealand supermarket brands and customers, it seems unlikely that self-checkouts will be completely eradicated anytime soon. Both Woolworths and Foodstuffs, the two major players in the market, have shown no intention to follow in Booths’ footsteps. The future of self-checkouts in New Zealand will likely depend on continued customer demand and technological advancements that address the concerns raised by those who find them slow and unreliable.
**FAQ:**
**Q: Why did Booths decide to remove self-checkouts?**
A: Booths found the self-checkout machines to be slow, unreliable, and impersonal. They wanted to prioritize a more personal experience for their customers.
**Q: Will New Zealand supermarket brands eliminate self-checkouts too?**
A: Woolworths NZ and Foodstuffs, two significant supermarket companies in New Zealand, have expressed their satisfaction with self-checkouts and have no plans to remove them.
**Q: What do Kiwi shoppers prefer – self-checkouts or staff-operated tills?**
A: The opinions differ among Kiwi shoppers. Some appreciate the convenience and efficiency of self-checkouts, while others desire more staffed checkouts to enhance the personal experience and reduce wait times during busy periods.