Major retailer unveils significant change at flagship Aussie location

Penrith locals in Sydney have been met with a shock sight at their local Big W store at Westfield (formerly Penrith Plaza).

Their checkout section has been completely revamped to include mostly self-checkouts in what is an significant redesign.

The new self-checkout station replaces the combination of staffed checkout lanes and self-checkouts previously offered to shoppers.

A spokesperson from Big W confirmed to nine.com.au the retailer has been "rolling out renewals and upgrades at select stores" to "improve the customer service experience".

Locations undergoing an upgrade include Penrith, Narellan and Plumpton in Sydney, Port Adelaide in South Australia and Queen Victoria Village in Melbourne.

"Additionally, by the end of the week we'll have rolled out new front of store designs for a further 30 stores to meet the changing needs of our customers, including our Penrith store which now has more checkouts to create a smoother shopping experience," the spokesperson said.

"In the majority of our stores, shoppers can also expect a new beauty 'shop within shop' with a dedicated team member to provide assistance for all things makeup, skincare, haircare and personal care."

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They pointed out that all Big W stores have "assisted checkouts" as part of their new self-checkout design "to ensure we're able to help our customers based on their needs and the products they're purchasing".

This is good news for Big W shoppers purchasing bulk and large items as well as those in need of further assistance.

The self-checkouts are also equipped with "Scan Assist" technology to "ensure no items are missed", according to the Big W website.

The Penrith store does tend to see a number of customers hoping to pay using cash, which can prove challenge in self-checkout set ups that typically limit this option.

The new Big W floor design also includes service points for customers located throughout the store.

Big W Penrith has also upgraded their security. Their previously entrance was open-plan, with staff positioned to monitor customer entry and exits.

Now, there is an automated security gate that prevents shoppers leaving the store using the entrance, removing the need for staff to monitor it.

There is also a security screen facing the entrance which records shoppers arriving at the store.

Big W sent through photos of their new store design inside their Narellan store which shows clearly marked sections including Tech, Toys, Clothing, Sport and Home.

Big W's famous bulk purchases have also been given their own section, making it easier for shoppers to locate the bargain buys which include cleaning products, laundry powder and liquid, kitchen products, toilet tissue, mops and outdoor items.

Big W Plumpton will reopen on November 6 with the brand new layout fully installed and Queen Victoria in Melbourne will reopen on November 13.

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As of this week, 30 Big W stores across Australia will be upgraded with new front of store designs.

In each of these stores, Big W has reportedly increased the overall number of checkouts based on the new self-checkout experience.

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