The South African
TikToker trials Checkers smart trolley: 'This is so cool!'
A Johannesburg TikToker has shared her account of using the Checkers smart trolley, where customers can self-checkout...
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Checkers' New Smart Trolley Revolutionizes Shopping, Ignites Debate on Jobs and Technology
Checkers Introduces Smart Trolleys, Sparking Debate on Future of Retail and Employment Brackenfel, South Africa – Checkers, a prominent South African supermarket chain, has rolled out its new Xpress Smart Trolley at select Hyper stores, including the one in Brackenfel. The innovative shopping cart, equipped with an integrated scanner and screen, allows customers to scan items as they shop, track their spending in real-time, and bypass traditional checkout queues. A recent video demonstration showcased the trolley's features, including a "Spin2Win" game that offers instant prizes, such as a free Cadbury chocolate. Users activate the trolley by scanning their Xtra Savings card and accepting terms and conditions, then proceed to scan products themselves before placing them in the trolley. The system aims to streamline the shopping experience, promising speed and convenience. However, the introduction of this advanced technology has ignited a lively debate among consumers. While many appreciate the convenience and efficiency, particularly citing frustrations with rude cashiers and long queues, significant concerns have been raised regarding its potential impact on employment. One commenter stated, "Unemployment rate is already high. I understand we all want convenience, however think of our brothers and sisters that need their jobs." Another echoed this sentiment, saying, "It is cool but they are systematically removing the human element. Even banks are doing this. More job loss, unemployment is already too high." Conversely, some argue that technological advancement is inevitable and can create new job opportunities in areas like software development, maintenance, and manufacturing for these new systems. "Technology is the future, we should be excited that our country is sticking with the times," one user commented, urging for government-led upskilling initiatives. Other concerns include the potential for increased theft, data privacy implications, and whether the cost of implementing and maintaining these trolleys will ultimately lead to higher prices for consumers. Checkers has yet to officially address the broader societal and economic implications raised by the public regarding the Xpress Smart Trolley.
