Penny tests hybrid cash registers in Germany

The essence of the development is that the modern POS terminal is able to switch modes depending on traffic. During periods of lower load – such as lunchtime – the system signals the employee to leave the station, and the checkout automatically continues to operate in self-service mode. During the afternoon and evening peak periods, however, staff are again at the checkouts, returning to traditional service.

Penny has not yet provided details on whether the hybrid system will be introduced nationwide or in international subsidiaries after the test period. However, other retail chains struggling with a labor shortage are also interested in the model: similar solutions have appeared in Edeka stores and Netto stores in Bavaria.

The rise of hybrid checkouts fits well with the trend in which automated checkouts are gaining an increasing role, while customer expectations remain divided. In Germany – as in other markets – many consumers value fast, self-service payment options, while others find automated systems impersonal.

In response, several Rewe and Edeka stores are operating so-called “chat checkouts”: in these, employees working at the checkout line set aside time specifically for conversation, primarily for older customers who want to socialize, according to Merkur.de.