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Some of the nation\u2019s biggest retailers are pulling back on self-checkout lanes as lawmakers push for tighter rules on the technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Among them is Walmart, which has begun phasing out self-checkout machines in select stores as part of an ongoing experiment with automation, per the New York Post.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The retail giant has been gradually removing the kiosks and bringing back traditional cashier-staffed lanes. Its latest move came at a store in South Philadelphia, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A company spokesperson told the outlet the shift is focused on improving customer service, saying the goal is to reduce wait times and create a more efficient shopping experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Per the New York Post, the spokesperson said, \u201cThese changes are guided by feedback from associates and customers, local shopping patterns, and the needs of the business in each community,improve the checkout experience and enable associates to provide more personalized customer service.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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NBC News YouTube
Self-checkout kiosks are also under scrutiny for another reason: theft. Retail experts say rising shoplifting \u2014 both intentional and accidental \u2014 is a major factor behind the pullback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A December 2025 LendingTree survey found 69% of users believe self-checkout makes stealing easier. About 27% admitted to intentionally taking an item without scanning it, while 36% said they had accidentally left with an unscanned product. Of that group, 61% acknowledged they kept the item.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Matt Schulz, LendingTree\u2019s chief consumer finance analyst, said largely unattended kiosks create opportunities for theft, especially as shoppers face financial pressure. Retail analyst Neil Saunders echoed that concern, noting that both deliberate theft and simple mistakes contribute to losses \u2014 and that returning to staffed checkout lanes can help retailers cut costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Experts say Walmart has been removing self-checkout machines in higher-theft locations, rather than making a sweeping nationwide change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other major chains are also rethinking their approach. Dollar General eliminated self-checkouts in about 12,000 stores in 2024, while Sam\u2019s Club has shifted toward AI-powered \u201cscan and go\u201d technology. Costco, meanwhile, is testing a hybrid system where employees scan items in customers\u2019 carts before they pay at the register.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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