03-07-2025
Tesco introduces new 'VAR-style' technology at self-service checkouts
Tesco introduces new 'VAR-style' technology at self-service checkouts
Customers will encounter the new technology, which includes an overhead camera, as they scan and pack their shopping, and it will alert them if they put an item in the bagging area which hasn't been scanned correctly
A woman uses a self-checkout at a Tesco
(Image: Getty Images )
Tesco customers will soon notice a big change at various checkout areas as the retail giant implements new measures. The supermarket has rolled out 'VAR-style' technology at its self-service tills, potentially surprising customers with unexpected notifications during their regular shopping trips. The new system involves an overhead camera that observes shoppers while they scan and bag items, alerting them to any unscanned items, according to the Express.
Of a shopper fails to properly scan an item, their actions will be replayed on the self-checkout screen.
A message will then prompt, "the last item wasn't scanned properly, remove from bagging area and try again", instructing the shopper to attempt scanning again.
The advanced technology is designed to catch any improperly scanned items, including loose products like fruits and vegetables that may not have barcodes.
Along with tackling shoplifting issues, the tech also aims to streamline the self-scanning experience for Tesco's customers.
On TikTok, the user @depopdrama shared a breakdown of the system, indicating it's meant to "try and deter people from taking items at self-checkout".
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The newly introduced scheme has been met with positive reactions from shoppers, with some arguing that it ought to have been implemented from "the first day", reports the Manchester Evening News.
On TikTok, Luke Kiely expressed his enthusiasm: "This is unreal! Hope this gets put in all supermarkets!" Meanwhile, a fellow TikToker, @skytaz, commented: "Good should have been there from the first day."
Some people however have voiced concerns that this new tech could lead to fewer staff manning the self-checkouts.
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A Reddit user going by @Ok-Vermicelli2226 pointed out: "Scan assist will mean they can lose even more checkout colleagues."
A Tesco representative said: "We are always looking at technology to make life easier for our customers. We have recently installed a new system at some stores which helps customers using self-service checkouts identify if an item has not been scanned properly, making the checkout process quicker and easier."
Approval of transactions can now be done remotely as well, which should lessen the need for staff involvement at the self-checkout points. This high-tech system is set to be launched nationwide.
