CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Self-checkouts may be on their way out.
Back when self-checkouts were first introduced in the 1980s, they were called self-service machines. As technology and grocery stores expanded, so did their popularity.
Now, from the nearby Walmart to some small businesses, consumers can often find the fast lane.
Self-checkout machines were being used almost exclusively at many stores during the pandemic, as it was one of the only ways to get essentials while staying safe. But now, retailers are rethinking the self-checkout due to ongoing issues with reliability and shoplifting.
Shoplifting has accounted for about 4% reported losses for retailers from the U.S. to Europe.
Big grocery chains like Walmart and Costco are already beginning to remove self-checkouts from stores. Walmart removed all self-checkouts across multiple stores in New Mexico earlier this year.
Wake Up Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at Wake Up Charlotte.
SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts || Spotify || Pandora || TuneIn || Google Podcasts || iHeart
All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.