Cashier vs self-serve checkout: Aussies divided over supermarket debate

Our supermarkets are looking different as the days go by due to self-service checkouts taking up more and more space.

But many Aussies are divided on the increasing presence of these machines and what it means for both customers and supermarket cashiers.

Recent research from analytics company Faethm by Pearson has predicted almost 10 per cent of Australia's workforce - about 1.3 million people - will have to retrain by 2027 as automation continues to take over.

READ MORE: Charles to visit Channel Islands after doctor clearance

Among the 20 jobs that were most in danger was a checkout operator, which was predicted to face job losses by 40,837 (37 per cent).

Now the nine.com.au audience has spoken out about what they prefer, with the question of cashiers versus self-service checkouts dividing Aussies.

Many were staunch defenders of the checkout, with 61 per cent of Aussies wanting face to face interaction with a cashier.

"I do my shopping where there are no self service check outs I hate them... I love the supermarkets and staff," one participant said.

"I believe that self-checkouts are doing people out of a job. This is just another way for the big supermarkets to save money while they keep jacking up the prices! Disgusted!" said another.

'I'd like the cashiers at supermarkets to be trained to pack properly and [with] respect. People are paying not for damaged goods," one added.

READ MORE: Simple way to deal with rowdy kids kicking your plane seat

"I never use self service checkouts, as I am not employed by the store," another participant said firmly.

Others admitted that self-service checkouts can be useful in some cases, with 39 per cent of participants preferring the machines over the regular checkout.

Many said that their choice about whether to use cashiers or self-service checkouts "depends on queue length [and] size of load."

READ MORE: Australia's most popular baby names for 2024 revealed

"Don't like self service unless I am buying only one or two items," one participant said.

"Depends on the quantity of groceries I am purchasing. I use self service for several items but not a fortnightly shop," added another.

FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in celebrity, lifestyle and opinion via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.