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An expanded Web version of segments seen on CNN Coming soon: self-service grocery checkouts
September 8, 1997
Web posted at: 12:54 p.m. EDT (1654 GMT)ATLANTA (CNN) -- Picture this: You've run into the grocery store to grab a gallon of milk and some eggs, and you hit the checkout line just after the rush-hour crowd has queued up, pushing their chock-full carts before them.
But instead of standing in line behind them, you walk up to a separate counter, slide your ATM or credit card through a scanner, and check out your own groceries. You're out of there in no time.
NCR's new "self-checkout system" aims to make this scenario a reality in U.S. grocery store express lanes starting sometime next year. Unlike similar systems already available on the market, NCR's is the first to combine a self-service automated teller machine (ATM) with checkout programs.
NCR Corp., which pioneered mechanical cash registers in the late 1800s, developed self-checkout two years ago. The new system could be the answer to many shoppers' prayers, NCR spokesman Tracy Flynn said. Lines at the cash register as the top complaint from retail store customers nationwide, he said.
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NCR's self-checkout is built like an ATM, and is just as user-friendly. A customer can either insert a credit or debit card to begin the transaction, or touch the word "start" on a computer screen to activate the system.
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Either way, shoppers have to scan and bag their own groceries. They also must weigh their own fruits and vegetables, and scan their own coupons. And they still have to show proof of age in order to buy alcoholic beverages.
If customers choose to pay with cash, the self-checkout can return change; if with a debit card, the machine can function as an ATM. A camera prevents theft or fraud.
While shoppers may benefit through shorter waits, Flynn says the system will also help retailers cut costs.
"We think that one of the key measures of success of the program will be to eliminate the cost of some existing labor for the front of the store," he said.
NCR also suggests that retail service may improve, as employees can spend more time helping shoppers select items and less time behind a cash register.
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