Self-service checkout technology is transforming the way consumers think about customer service. Not long ago, good customer service meant properly training sales associates to assist shoppers in need. Now, more and more companies are shifting to tech-based customer service.
From a retailer’s perspective, the benefits of this type of checkout option is obvious: They are relatively inexpensive to maintain, reduce labor costs and make consumers’ in-store shopping experiences faster and seamless. It’s no wonder that players ranging from retailers to QSRs have been eager to experiment with variations of self-service technology, and new forms appear to be cropping up every year, including not only the familiar self-service kiosks at grocery stores, but wholly cashier-less stores.
How do customers feel about Self-service options?
According to a recent survey, shoppers are not only comfortable with this form of checkout, many prefer them to real-life sales associates. Respondents cited several factors — including speed, convenience and ease of use — to explain why they are increasingly opting to wait in the checkout line.
In the latest Self-Service Retail Study, PYMNTS, in collaboration with Diebold Nixdorf, examines survey data collected from 2,170 shoppers on their experiences with and impressions of self-service retail checkout options. The findings suggest that self-service technology is not merely the latest cost-saving fad, but rather a product of consumers’ demand for a faster, easier and more seamless shopping experience.
Other key findings in this report include:
- 45 percent of self-service customers pay with debit cards
- 28 percent of shoppers would frequent a non-grocer more if it had self-service checkouts
- 87 percent of respondents who shop at self-service stores do so because it’s faster
The V-Accelerator Partnership Model
V-Accelerator recognizes that not every business is the same and we offer various ways for successful applicants to partner with us and create a technology space that can truly impact lives and businesses. This could be as simple as having a meeting in our labs and giving advice, marketing the product, signing a collaboration agreement to solve a big problem, or connecting the Partner with investment funding. Interested? Why not get in touch with us today to learn more.