A regional grocery chain in America shocked customers after announcing that it plans to limit self-checkouts in a bid to increase human to human interaction in store.
Sparkle Markets — which is based in Eastern Ohio, Western Pennsylvania and West Virginia — has decided not to implement any self-checkouts, The Mirror reports.
"Many big grocery brands have decided to phase out their cashiers and replace them with self-checkout machines," said President Vincent Furrie, Jr., in a statement posted to social media, adding: "They believe limiting human interaction is the future of retail shopping."
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Their president feels there are bonuses to employing real people to work as checkout points in store.
"Employing our neighbours not only benefits this company, it also benefits our communities," he wrote. "In times like this, jobs are more important than ever. We value the person at the register — we hope you do as well. Helping one another just cannot be replaced."
Customers were delighted at hearing that the chain is choosing to go against the grain of cost-effective robot checkouts.
"Thank you for caring for both your customers and employees," wrote Darlene Herbster.
"Totally agree!!! Thank you for keeping the "self-checkout" out of your store. Your employees are always helpful and kind," said Annette McCarthy.
A great deal of others praised the chain.
Linda Dickey said she works as a cashier at the chain's Columbiana, Ohio, location and thanked Furrie for the choice to increase human interaction with customers
"I love my job and thank you sir and thank you to all our wonderful customers!!!!" she expressed online.
The post received over 1,300 reactions and 208 comments.
It also believed the chain reported an increase in shoplifting at the self-checkout machines.
Just last month, a woman made use of a self-checkout to steal three TVs and a drink.
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon has also announced that stores may be closing or increasing their prices due to shoplifting.
