A feature slowly being rolled across Aldi supermarkets across the country has drawn criticism from shoppers.
An annual shopper’s report has revealed how Australia’s soaring cost of living has forced Australians to change what they buy at the checkout.
The German chain first began trialling self-serve check-outs in June 2021 after previously stating it had “no plans” to bring the option to its Australian supermarkets.
Earlier this year, customers began to vent that the machines are too loud, but now customers are frustrated by the concept of the self-serve – particularly that some machines are card only. Social media users have taken to the internet to vent about the machines.
Aldi introduced self-serve check-outs to their NSW stores in 2021. Picture: Supplied
“Aldi at Armidale NSW has had them for a couple of months. Card only. I was there Saturday afternoon. No one was using them. Plenty of people using the manned check-outs,” one social media user said.
Another called it a “rort” and said people should “demand service”, while another said they will leave their shopping if no staffed check outs were opened.
“I am a conscientious objector who will not use them. Try some express lanes. 15 items work very well,” another said.
One commenter added: “I agree these self-checkouts at all these food stores should be closed down. Hire people instead the profits are massive. We need to have old-fashioned service.”
Many have slammed the supermarket over the move. Photo: Stuart Fast
Another said: “I don’t mind the self service check out but they have to take cash. Not everyone has or wants to use a card.”
But not everyone agreed with the complaints about the self-serve check-outs.
“Love them. Don’t have to wait behind people with trolleys full in the manned check-outs,” one social media user said.
“Quick and easy. I wonder if people complaining are also the people in some posts ‘demanding’ people let them in if they only have one or two items.”
Another said: “I’m in and out in less than half an hour now thanks to the new self serve machines. I put through entire trolleys and haven’t had an issue so far.”
However, news.com.au understands the supermarket makes decisions in line with what fits their low cost model, to continue to bring customers to lowest prices.
The publication also understands the check-outs have allowed staff to be freed up in order to focus on customer service, stock replenishment and store presentation.