The case for… Automated checkouts

I remember not particularly liking the first time I used an automated checkout. The technology hadn’t quite been perfected, so I was required to scan each item more than once, and the scales seemed calibrated to detect phantom objects in the bagging area any time a passing fly flapped its wings. Years later, such faults are few and far between, and I happily punt for the automated checkout any time I can. I thrill at their efficiency and, if I’m honest, the chance to play my very own game of Supermarket Sweep.

Don’t get me wrong. As the world becomes ever more machine automated, I do sometimes rankle with the gradual erosion of human interaction. It’s just I’m not 100% certain I need that in my supermarket shopping experience. I wasn’t, if I’m honest, having many life-changing conversations with my cashiers beforehand, and at least now the world’s shoppers can buy their specialty magazines and intimate creams without avoiding – or, worse, seeking - eye contact with human staff.

The only interaction I do miss is the deep, unclean joy I felt being asked for ID when buying booze which, I am sorry to say, has not happened in many, many years. So, no, I’d prefer to do the beeping and bagging myself. It’s faster, more fun and I’m pretty good at it. And if one does still crave human connection, this system does provide one sure fire way to get it. Simply place something in the wrong spot, or attempt to remove it from the bagging area before its time. Then you’ll be greeted by the staff who patrol the area like exam invigilators, more than willing to fuss over you with their magical, access-granting lanyards and their punchy, finger-thwacked codes. They may even ask you to confirm your age, just for old time’s sake.