Self-checkouts are present in 96% of grocery stores worldwide and campaigners argue that automation, energy costs, and online shopping are accelerating the decline of town centres and eroding traditional face-to-face retail experiences.

A recent study by the Centre for Retail Research found about 170,000 UK retail jobs were lost, external in 2024, with most of those roles held by women.

However, retailers argue self-service tills reflect changing consumer habits and offer speed and convenience.

Kris Hamer, director of insight at the British Retail Consortium, said: “The expansion of self-service checkouts is a response to changing consumer behaviours, which show many people prioritising speed and convenience.

“Many retailers provide manned and unmanned checkouts as they work to deliver great service at low cost for their customers”.