Aldi has removed self-service checkouts from some stores following a backlash from customers who threatened to boycott the supermarket. The budget chain had been trialling the tills at its Glascote store in Staffordshire and extended the trial to four more locations last weekend.
However, many shoppers expressed strong opposition, arguing that the machines would lead to job losses and longer queues. Phyllis Ward told Mirror Online: 'I refuse to use any self service tills... This only encourages the big companies to employ less staff.' Another shopper, Jean Pearn, raised concerns about the elderly facing frustration and job losses.
Despite some positive feedback, Aldi decided to scrap the self-checkout trial. An Aldi spokesperson said: 'Following positive feedback, we've extended our trial of self-service checkouts to four more locations to further improve the customer experience.' But the company has now confirmed that the tills will not be rolled out further.
The four trial locations were Woodgate in Leicester, Manchester Arndale, Bishop's Stortford, and Bedford. The decision comes as other supermarkets face similar resistance to automation.
