The Northern Echo readers have shared their thoughts on supermarket self-checkouts.
The topic sparked a mix of opinions, with some embracing the quick convenience and others lamenting the loss of human interaction.
Val Patterson said: "I would rather queue at a manned checkout for an hour than use a self-service checkout.
"I like the human element, and I’m keeping someone employed."
Anna Teasdale shared a similar sentiment, saying: "Why should I do someone out of a job?
"This is why I refuse to use them."
Others, however, were more appreciative of the self-service option.
Tiger Tim Harris said: "Best thing going, especially scan and go. Zap the shopping, straight in the bag once."
Margaret Foulger, a former retail worker, said: "Not a lot!!! I served the public in retail all my working life + don't want to serve myself now I'm retired."
For some, the self-checkouts are a necessary evil yet, many readers were concerned about the impact on jobs.
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Dorothy Clark said: "If I've only got a few things I don't mind them, it's quicker."
Danny Eason said: "I refuse to use them as I believe they will eventually take people's jobs."
Concerns were also raised about the lack of assistance at these checkouts.
George Burnham shared an experience where he was left confused and unattended at a self-service till. He said: "I hate them and try hard NOT to use them. The various instructions are confusing."
Some readers felt the self-checkouts were more suitable for younger shoppers.
Hilary Bowler said: "Good for the younger generation. Not good for me so don't use them. 50/50 would be the right way forward in my opinion."
Yet, for others, the convenience of self-service outweighed any negatives.
Alan Gibson said: "Great... done and dusted quick."
What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.
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