Target Announces Changes to Self-Checkout at All Maine Stores

If you haven't been paying close attention to the news recently, there's a growing divide amongst major retailers when it comes to self-checkout, both how efficient and cost-effective the lanes are for stores, as well as how they affect the customer experience.

One of the nation's largest retailers, Target, has been working hard on figuring out best practices when it comes to self-checkout. Late last year, they chose a handful of stores in Maine to test a new 10 items or less policy they hoped would speed up the lanes and keep customer grumbles down.

It appears those tests went well. According to USA Today, Target is going to mandate the 10 items or less policy for all self-checkout lanes at every one of their stores nationwide. That includes all six locations in Maine in Biddeford, Bangor, Augusta, Topsham, Brunswick, and South Portland.

Alongside the announcement that all self-checkout lanes will be express, Target also announced they plan to have more regular registers open for customers with large amounts of items, as well as those who need extra assistance.

It's possible that Target is seizing the moment while other retailers are faltering. Walmart is embroiled in controversy as rumors swirled that the retail giant may charge a subscription fee to use self-checkout lanes at stores nationwide. Walmart has denied any plans for a subscription fee.

Another one of the country's largest retailers, Dollar General, has announced plans to eliminate self-checkout all together at many stores nationwide in hopes of reducing theft.

As stores continue to grapple with the changing habits of consumers, it appears Target is looking to win customers confidence with efficiency and service. The new 10 items of less self-checkout lanes at Target are set to begin immediately.