Tesco’s new security scanners rolled out in just one of its UK branches so far has sparked controversy among shoppers
Tesco has started a controversial new trial aimed to combat shoplifting. But, the initiative has sparked a mixed reaction, with some shoppers comparing the system to something seen at the UK border controls.
Under this new system, trolleys are weighed before checkout for those using Scan As You Shop (SAYS) to ensure that the total weight matches the scanned items. If there are any discrepancies, the system alerts the shopper, flagging any items that may have been missed or scanned incorrectly. Currently in the trial phase, three Scan To Shop systems have been installed at a Tesco store in Gateshead, with plans to introduce them in selected store locations across the country. According to Tesco, this new technology aims to reduce the number of manual service checks carried out by employees and could also help to shorten queues at the tills.
The process works by allowing customers to pick up a scanning device upon entering the supermarket. As they shop, they scan each product before placing it into their trolley or basket. Once they have finished shopping, they can proceed to payment without needing to rescan their items at a self-service checkout or with a cashier.
Before leaving the store, shoppers are randomly selected for a ‘service check,’ where an employee verifies that all items have been scanned correctly. This ensures that customers have neither been overcharged nor accidentally missed any payments.
While some shoppers have welcomed the new system, others have expressed anger and disappointment, comparing it be like the airport security points. One customer commented: : “Sorry didn’t realise this was Tesco, thought it was border force,” with a second one following: “Do I need my passport.”
Others voiced concerns over the accuracy of the system, with one shopper saying: “I can’t even trust the self checkout to weigh a packet of paracetamol, how do you expect this to work?,” with another one saying: “They’ll do anything except hire more people.”
A spokesperson told The Mirror: “We are constantly looking for ways to improve customers shopping experience and as part of this, we are running a very small trial with our Scan as you Shop checkouts.” They added: “Our colleagues and the friendly service they provide are absolutely vital to our stores and they will always be on hand to help our customers, whatever time of day, whether they are checking out at one of our colleague-operated or using scan as you shop.”
Tesco is not the only retailer trialling innovative checkout solutions. Marks & Spencer has introduced a new method where shoppers place their basket into a ‘smart checkout.’ This system automatically calculates the total cost by scanning a chip embedded in the product’s price tag. Currently being tested in the clothing and home departments of selected M&S stores, this initiative aims to reduce queuing times while minimising the need for staff intervention.
Similarly, some retailers, such as Primark, have implemented security measures at their self-checkout areas. In these stores, customers must scan the barcode on their receipt to exit, ensuring that all purchases have been processed correctly. With more supermarkets and retail chains experimenting with technology-driven solutions, the future of shopping appears to be shifting towards automated systems.