Self-scanning checkouts

ITAB runs a number of development projects in the checkout product sector. ITAB has partnered with a software supplier to develop two types of self-scanning checkouts – a larger one with a conveyor belt intended for customers with shopping trolleys, and a smaller unit adapted to customer baskets. The shopping procedure is the same as usual, meaning that the consumer puts the items into the trolley or the basket. At the self-scanning checkout, the customer takes out the items, scans them at a reader and places them on the conveyor belt which transports the items to the end of the checkout. The customer then pays at a card reader integrated with the checkout, a receipt is printed and the customer can pack the items and leave. The shop staff stands by at a service counter to help in the event of a problem or to accept payment.

The system offers many benefits for the shop. Since the consumers scan the items, one person can manage up to eight checkouts. Self scanning is a secure system since all items are scanned at the exit. Although ITAB’s self-scanning checkouts allow room for two customers at the same time, they require less room than traditional checkouts, which saves shop space and makes room for more items or more exit checkouts, resulting in fewer queues. The system also has an alarm function that minimizes the risk of theft and loss of stock.