Primark Introduces Self-Service Check Out Tills at 20 UK Stores

• Primark introduces self-checkout tills at 20 UK stores.
• Customers express mixed reactions to the new system.
• Self-checkout tills aimed at reducing queuing times.
• Click and collect service expanded to 32 additional stores.

Primark has announced a significant update to its checkout process, rolling out self-checkout tills across 20 of its UK stores. The change, aimed at reducing long queues, offers customers a quicker and more efficient shopping experience.

The initiative began in 2022 with initial trials in Sheffield, Northampton, West Bromwich, and Kingston. Since then, the list has expanded to 20 locations, including Coventry, Slough, and Edinburgh.

However, not all customers are thrilled with the new system. One disappointed shopper took to Facebook, saying, “I went to Primark Bexleyheath yesterday and found the downstairs tills have been changed to five self-service and three to four manned tills. Only two of the manned tills were operational, and the queue started to form. Leading up to Christmas, be warned it will be a nightmare.” Another customer expressed similar frustration, calling the change “disgusting.”

Ellie Doughty at The Sun reported that a Primark spokesperson responded positively about the update, noting that customers appreciate the increased choice, especially for smaller purchases or when pressed for time. They assured that the impact on queuing times would be monitored closely, particularly as the holiday season approaches.

The self-checkout tills are part of a trial and are chosen for each store based on specific criteria. They feature security measures, such as a door that only opens once a receipt is scanned, to help prevent shoplifting.

The full line up of shops includes:

Sheffield

Northampton

West Bromwich

Kingston

Coventry

Slough

Edinburgh

Milton Keynes

Basingstoke

Salisbury

Bexleyheath

Bury

Cwmbran

Birkenhead

Yeovil

Stratford

Southport

Hackney

Bury St Edmunds

Metrocentre

In addition to the new self-checkout tills, Primark has also extended its click and collect service to 32 more stores in London and Greater London. This service allows customers to pick up their online orders at a dedicated desk in participating stores, with no additional fee for orders over £10.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, commented, "Primark's move to introduce self-checkout tills is a clear attempt to modernize and streamline their shopping experience. While it may take some getting used to, it ultimately offers a quicker option for those in a hurry."