One of the most popular retail chains in the country is introducing the concept of self-service stores. The first Walmart to use the new format is located in Fayetteville, Arkansas. While self-service cash desks were previously available as an option in the larger stores, Walmart wants to make them the main way of serving customers. If the testing is successful, the new approach will be implemented in other stores across the country.
This format is gaining popularity today, especially in light of the coronavirus pandemic. Implementation of the new approach will help to reduce the risk of infection by reducing the number of interactions between people. Customers would no longer need to stand in queues and interact with cashiers.
The company also notes one other important advantage; the process of customer service would be accelerated, as fewer people would pay in cash. Also, job cuts could result in significant savings for Walmart, one of the largest employers in the U.S. However, staff will continue to be present in the sales area to advise and assist customers.
In March, the company began introducing contactless payment options for customers. Due to the new payment system, human interaction in the stores is expected to be kept to a minimum. As with many systems, such as Apple Pay, customers can add their payment cards to the Walmart app and pay simply by holding their phone over a payment acceptance device.
