Woolworths has introduced a new way to shop in-store using a digital trolley, but many aren’t happy about it.
The supermarket giant has launched a trial of the Scan&Go Trolley in selected Sydney stores, allowing customers to scan their items as they shop using a tablet.
But many have expressed concerns that the change is cumbersome and time-consuming compared to traditional payments.
Before purchasing, customers can unlock a tablet by scanning their Everyday Rewards card and placing it in a cart.
Products can be easily tracked and paid for in a single transaction without the need to pick up any items.
The new offer is being trialled at Woolworths Windsor in Sydney’s north-west with plans to also roll out at Warringah Mall, The Ponds, Kellyville North, Lane Cove, Kellyville, Oran Park, Kellyville Grove, Schofields Town Centre and North Parramatta.
One shopper, Jenny, said it took her longer than usual to finish her regular grocery shopping while using the new technology.
“It wasn’t as easy as doing my usual shopping. I don’t know where to scan them,” she said. 7NEWS.
Woolworths has launched a trial of the Scan&Go trolley in Sydney, allowing shoppers to scan their items as they shop using a tablet
“It took me a lot longer than I thought. I had to search for the products, scan them, bend over and check them all the time.”
Others complained on social media, with one person saying the technology is “dehumanising” because it reduces the amount of social interaction in-store.
“I feel so sorry for the older people who may have no idea how to use this technology,” one wrote on Facebook.
“No, I want my human cashiers to scan and bag my items. I think we should get a discount for scanning and bagging our own groceries,” said another.
“I think it’s just another way of dehumanizing us, pushing us further away from socializing and putting the livelihoods of people trying to make ends meet at risk,” added a third.
Before shopping, customers can unlock a tablet by scanning their Everyday Rewards card and placing it in a cart. But shoppers on TikTok were outraged, claiming the new feature makes them feel like Woolworths employees.
“I don’t want to lose my social skills completely, as this is the only regular time, apart from my studies, when I am in physical contact with others,” wrote another.
But Woolworths says the change is about making grocery shopping more convenient for customers.
“Our customers expect us to offer value and convenience,” Woolworths Group’s Faye IIhan said in a statement.
‘Scan&Go Trolley is a market-leading innovation that will help you save time and balance your budget when shopping for groceries.
‘Pending feedback from our customers, we hope to introduce the Scan&Go cart to more supermarkets across the country.’
The latest technology is an extension of the mobile functionality offered in select locations.