A lesson the pandemic has taught retailers is the importance of automating their customer experiences. In fact, NCR reports that consumers are mainly looking for retailers to fix two key friction points with in-store automation: general aisle congestion and long lines at checkout.
The rise of self-service technologies is one solution that addresses both these issues while offering retailers the opportunity to improve productivity and cut costs simultaneously.
What is a traditional self-checkout?
The self-checkout till or self-service checkout is an automated system based on self-service technology (SST) that allows customers to scan, bag, and pay for their purchases without the need for a cashier.
Using this technology, customers can conduct transactions, access information, or obtain services without the assistance of a human. Due to the fact that self-service technology allows customers to complete their transactions whenever they choose, it is becoming increasingly popular nowadays.
How customers use self-checkout
Compared with traditional EPOS systems, self-service checkouts provide faster and more personalised services, which reduce costs in hospitality and retail.
In a supermarket, some self-service tills might require weighing items, like fruit and vegetables, while others may prompt age verification for products like alcohol. Restaurants offer customers the option of ordering food and drinks through kiosks at their tables, while food stores let customers know when their order is ready for pick-up via text message.
Additionally, self-service kiosks can offer information about products (image, price, availability, and location) and stores (location and operating hours).
As a whole, these features can distinguish one retailer from another in terms of customer experience, as they help reduce queues and allow customers to shop at their own pace.
The benefits of self-checkouts
A number of benefits are associated with self-checkout technology, which enhances the overall shopping experience. Some of them include
Convenience
These solutions eliminate the need to unload and then reload items during checkout. Shoppers can pack items immediately after scanning.
Efficiency
By allowing customers to scan and pack as they shop, it speeds up the checkout process. No more waiting in long queues at the self-checkout.
Contactless
In the wake of global health concerns, having a contactless payment and shopping method is a significant boon. Customers can reduce their touchpoints in the store, making for a safer shopping environment.
Reshaping retail experiences with Trust Payments
At Trust Payments, we offer innovative retail payment solutions to further elevate your customers’ checkout experiences. Here’s how we can help:
Retail
Integrating with our secure payment gateway ensures that every automated checkout transaction is safe. This gives customers the confidence to adopt self-checkout without worrying about data breaches or fraudulent activities.
B2B transactions
Trust Payments can support multiple payment methods, from credit and debit cards to digital wallets. This means that whether a customer is using an RFID checkout or a scan shopping app, they have various payment options at their fingertips.
Loyalty programs
Enhance the self-checkout experience by integrating loyalty programs. When customers use the scan shopping app, they can earn points, avail discounts, or get personalised recommendations, all thanks to our seamless integration capabilities.
Real-time data analytics
With our solution, retailers can gain data insights into shopping behaviours, trends, and preferences. This data can be instrumental in stock management, marketing campaigns, and overall store management.
Streamlined returns
Issues with self-service technologies, like incorrect scans or payment problems, can be swiftly addressed when integrated with a robust system like Trust Payments. This ensures that the self-checkout experience remains smooth and hassle-free.
From the traditional checkout machines to the more advanced retail solutions, the future focus is on enhancing the customer experience. With the integration of payment solutions like Trust Payments, the future of self-service checkout looks more promising than ever. Revolutionise your approach today!
