A £3.5m investment will see Scotmid introduce a series of hardware and software enhancements to its kiosks, including new tills, printers, scanners for faster and more efficient transactions, new customer screens, and assisted checkouts.
Tills will be tailored to meet the unique demands of each store location, while ensuring that a strong service offering remains for customers who prefer manual checkouts. The firm claimed that, over time, self-scan tills had become an integral part of the shopping experience due to improvements in technology and customer familiarity. It stated that today’s customers expected quicker transactions and sought more choice on how to shop at the checkout.
The introduction of new assisted checkouts is part of Scotmid’s broader strategy to respond to customer preference, providing greater convenience and flexibility . The firm claimed that the checkouts would reduce wait times, increase transaction efficiency, and streamline the checkout process. Additionally, it said that the new kiosk infrastructure would help optimise store layouts, improving overall store flow and enhancing the customer experience.
The work, which will be rolled out across Scotmid’s Food and Semichem stores, is being delivered by Pan Oston/4POS.
Scotmid is proactively managing any potential risks associated with assisted checkouts. Measures include operator oversight, such as additional screens to monitor transactions, and the strategic placement of assisted checkouts near manual tills to help reduce opportunities for theft. In addition, staff will be trained to identify unusual purchasing patterns and assist customers at the assisted checkouts, ensuring a safe and secure environment. The retailer is also trialling new technology that monitors scanning and alerts colleagues to any unusual transactions. Regular audits and technological updates will further help minimise theft across stores.
Margaret Anne Clark, Chief Operating Officer (Services) at Scotmid, said: “Digital transformation continues to play a pivotal role in the evolution of the retail industry. We’re excited to be launching this major programme of enhancements for the benefit of our store colleagues and customers, to create a seamless, efficient, and modern shopping experience.”
Ralf Hovenga, CEO at Pan Oston Holding, said: “We are delighted to add Scotmid to our portfolio of businesses adopting this technology into their stores. From experience, we know it makes a positive impact on the way people shop and provides several efficiencies for staff, giving them more time to focus on customers.”
The programme of works is scheduled for completion in late 2025.
