David Awoyode
The Shoprite Group has unveiled its new Checkers Xpress Trolley, a smart cart that allows customers to scan products as they shop and make payments directly from the trolley.
Features of the Smart Trolley
The trolleys, which debut at Checkers Constantia and Brackenfell, are fitted with digital screens that:
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Scan items instantly
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Display personalised promotions
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Track spending in real time
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Enable direct checkout from the cart
According to Neil Schreuder, Shoprite’s Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, the aim is to enhance convenience, improve speed, and give shoppers more control throughout their shopping journey.
Concerns Over Job Loss
While some shoppers welcomed the innovation, many South Africans expressed fears that the technology could displace cashiers in a country already battling high unemployment.
One user wrote: “We have the highest unemployment rate. We can’t afford to go humanless.” Another added: “Eventually, there will no longer be cashiers.”
Fears of Increased Theft
Others raised alarms that self-checkout trolleys could make shoplifting easier. Critics argued that even developed countries face challenges with self-scanning theft, suggesting South Africa may see even greater problems.
Global Self-Checkout Debate
Reports from the UK and US reveal growing consumer pushback against digital shopping tools. Some shoppers prefer traditional tills, insisting that self-checkout cuts jobs while offering little real benefit to customers.
Charles Esther