Target has not changed its self-checkout policy, retailer says, despite recent reports about 'shrink'

Target Corp. is clarifying that its self-checkout policies have not changed, despite media reports suggesting otherwise. The retail giant announced its 10-items-or-fewer limit for self-checkout lanes based on customer feedback over a year ago. Target insists it continues to offer self-checkout options in most stores and that transaction times have improved since the policy's implementation. Surveys indicate mixed opinions on self-checkouts' role in shoplifting, with many believing they contribute to theft, yet few admitting to having committed theft themselves.

Target is not removing self-checkout; we offer it in the vast majority of our stores and have no plans to change this.

At the time of its original announcement in March 2024, Target said its 10-items-or-fewer rule was based on guest feedback.

While 69% of respondents believe self-checkout lanes make it easier to steal, only 15% admitted to actually doing so.

Companies are still trying to strike the right balance between being technology forward and letting technology run roughshod over the customer experience.

Read at Fast Company