Cash Ecosystem
Exploring the developments in self-checkout technology
Explore the latest self-checkout technology and learn how retailers are utilizing this to expand their investments in future technology.
Self-Improvement: Exploring the Newest Features & Advantages of Self-Checkout Technology
In the comparatively long history of “the store”—the self checkout is nothing if not a newcomer. That said, during its relatively short tenure, it’s already become ubiquitous. It’s also gotten better—adding features and functionality to convert many of its original detractors. In this short overview, we explore some of the advances in self-checkout technology, as well as their benefits for both customers and retailers.
Self-Evident: The Basic Benefits of Self-Checkout Technology
As the name implies, the “self-checkout” or “self-service checkout” is an alternative checkout experience where customers can complete a transaction without the need of another human. Made possible by a host of different self-checkout technology, the self checkout is major time-saver for store patrons, as well as convenient option for anyone who may be multitasking.
But the advantages of self-service checkouts aren’t exclusive to the customer. Businesses stand to benefit quite a lot, too. Self checkouts lower labor costs and increase operational efficiency. They also provide a safer, more hygienic option for all people—more vital than ever in today’s post-pandemic society. But most critically to this guide: self checkouts deliver unparalleled ROI. Not only do they help businesses eliminate future labor costs (rising due to inflation), they’re also continually improving as self-checkout technology advances.
In the sections below, we take a closer look at some of the most critical advancements in self-checkout technology: what they are, which problems they solve, and how they can benefit both customers and businesses moving into the future.
Knowing Thyself: How Self-Checkout Technology Has Solved Some of Its Own Biggest Problems
When self checkouts first hit the scene at the start of the 21st century, they were a revelation. But they were also limited. Some critics considered those early days a failed promise of self-checkout technology—but with each passing day, the promise proved to be truer and truer. Now, several decades have passed, and self-checkout technology has improved markedly. Let’s take a closer look at how today’s self checkouts have solved the issues faced by their earlier iterations.
Resolving the Skip-Scan Issue
In recent years, self-checkout technology has become increasingly popular in retail stores of all kinds. However, it has also become a way for some customers to skip-scan some products, which has been an issue for retailers.
Some store owners are exploring loss-prevention solutions by adding camera systems that detect if a shopper does not scan an item. These systems alert staff and customers of failed scans and will give the customer the option to try again.
Handling Age-Restricted Products
A common issue for retailers is the selling of age-restricted products, such as cigarettes and alcohol, at self-checkout stations. Historically, these transactions have required participation from store staff; however, advances in self-checkout technology are providing new solutions.
Now, some self-checkout machines have the ability to scan customers’ IDs and verify their age. This means convenience stores and other retailers can now offer age-restricted products for self-checkout without worrying about selling their products to underage customers.
With this technology, retailers can offer a convenient and hassle-free experience for all types of products bought by customers of all age groups.
Payment Without Using Barcodes
As self-checkout technology continues to evolve, new and more convenient scanning methods are being explored. One such method is using cameras to identify and pay for items without barcodes.
While this technology is still in the early stages of implementation, it has the potential to revolutionize the self-checkout experience. Early tests of this technology have been implemented in places where customers only purchase a handful of items, such as stadiums, cinemas, and coffee shops.
In these checkout environments, shoppers simply place the items on the self-checkout scanner and get them automatically paid for. The technology relies on cameras that identify the product and instantly relay the item’s price to the point-of-sale system. Customers can then quickly pay using their cards or cash through an automated cash recycler.
Camera-based self-checkout is still in its infancy, but it shows promise as a more efficient and customer-friendly way to shop. In short: it will eliminate the need to look for and scan barcodes, shortening the checkout process overall. This development is certainly one to watch out for in the next few years.
Optimizing for Cash Transactions
While some self-checkouts encourage cashless transactions, the most successful machines accept cash, too. Why? Approximately 22% of adults in the U.S. are unbanked or underbanked, which means they usually pay in cash. More still prefer to have cash as an option, even if they frequently use cards or other payment methods. Cash-accepting self-checkout solutions like those offered by our team at Sesami enable retailers to accept more business while embracing automation: a double return on the self-checkout investment.
The Self-Improvement is Just Getting Started
Self-checkout technology is a win-win for both retailers and customers. Retailers can reduce their in-store labor burden and increase efficiency, while customers can enjoy a faster and more convenient shopping experience.
The most exciting part? Self-checkout technology will continue to evolve, and the future is sure to provide even more efficiency and better security for customers and business owners alike.
Sesami Solution Experts
The team at Sesami.io consists of innovative and skilled professionals with deep expertise in industry trends and technical knowledge. They have a proven track record of guiding businesses through numerous technology cycles, especially in the retail and financial sectors. Their work involves creating cutting-edge solutions that set new standards for how companies leverage digital technology. Renowned for their analytical skills and strategic insights, the team has led numerous transformative projects, positioning themselves as key influencers in the technology field. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and their drive to expand the possibilities of technology makes them trusted partners in managing the complexities of today's digital world.