A customer called Kroger to bring back self-checkout machines, as other shoppers expressed their frustration and threatened to shop elsewhere.
The shopper voiced their demands on X, previously known as Twitter, criticizing Kroger and other stores like Pick N Save for not reintroducing self-checkout options.
Shoppers Demand Mute Option on Self-Checkout
A shopper has openly called for Kroger and other supermarkets, such as Pick N Save, King Soopers, and Metro Market, to reintroduce the option to mute self-checkout machines, an amenity that was once standard but has been removed, per The U.S. Sun report.
The request was posted on X, formerly Twitter, where the customer expressed frustration, noting, "Even KwikTrip lets you do it." They emphasized that the ability to control the volume-set it to high, low, or mute-had been available for years before it was inexplicably withdrawn.
In response to the complaint, Kroger stated that the feedback has been noted and will be forwarded to their leadership teams. The shopper optimistically remarked that reinstating the mute function "shouldn't be too hard."
This issue has also been a hot topic on the Reddit thread r/Kroger, where other customers have voiced similar concerns. One explained that without the mute option, the self-checkout area becomes filled with a confusing blend of the same voice prompts, which shoppers eventually ignore.
Also Read: Target's Limited Self-Checkout Hours Spark Long Lines, Shopper Discontent
Another shopper pointed out the redundancy of the audible prompts, questioning their effectiveness in preventing theft-a reason suggested in the discussion for why the mute option was eliminated. They argued that the constant announcements might lead to "alarm fatigue" among employees and irritation among customers, making them less attentive to genuine security concerns.
The debate extends beyond sound issues at self-checkout stations. Customers are also criticizing broader anti-theft measures at several major retailers, such as receipt checks, locked-up products, and purchasing limits, suggesting these tactics treat shoppers like potential thieves and could be alienating them.
Long Lines Drive Customers Away from Kroger
Following the removal of the mute option at self-checkouts, another issue compounds shopper dissatisfaction at Kroger: lengthy waits at the checkout lines.
A recent report from Franchise Herald highlights that numerous registers remain unopened, forcing customers to queue behind at least 20 others, prompting them to seek alternatives.
Dr. Kia Conerway voiced her exasperation with X, stating, "I don't like shopping at Kroger. I'll use Instacart or go to The Fresh Market or Whole Foods. It's a bad idea to close cashier lanes and make everyone use self-checkout, especially when waiting in lines with 20 people. I'm not doing it anymore. The lines make shopping impossible."
In response, Kroger issued an apology and sought further details from Dr. Conerway to address the problem, which she acknowledged with a thank-you and a private message.
This situation is not isolated. In one instance, despite approximately 50 people waiting, only one checkout lane was open at a Kroger store. Instead of opening more lanes or reallocating staff, the manager attempted to alleviate delays by helping to bag items-a move that fell short of resolving the long wait times.
As frustration mounts, many shoppers abandon their carts and exit the stores. The discontent is palpable among customers, one of whom lamented a "Big food loss day, I'm sure, for that store," signaling a significant impact on business.
These ongoing issues have led to a broader exodus of patrons increasingly exploring other shopping venues.
Related Article: Canadian Tire Eliminates Self-Checkouts at One Location, Following Walmart's Lead for Improved Store Flow
