U.S. grocery stores are reducing self-checkouts due to tech problems, long lines, and poor adoption, despite attempts at hybrid models.

Self-checkout systems in U.S. grocery stores are facing growing criticism as consumers and retailers alike report technical issues, confusing interfaces, and longer wait times. Many stores are scaling back or removing self-checkouts due to low usage and customer frustration, while staff still need to monitor the machines, undermining expected labor savings. Retailers are now testing hybrid models that blend self-service with employee support, but widespread reliability and adoption remain inconsistent, casting doubt on the long-term future of self-checkouts as a primary checkout method.