Wegmans Stops Self-Checkout App After Increase in Shoplifting

Wegmans, a leading grocer on the east coast, has ended the usage of self-checkout app after there have been too many shoplifting incidences reported. Launched in 2019, the app gave consumers the ability to scan, bag and pay for their groceries in an attempt to limit check-out time.

Wegmans SCAN was intended to provide shoppers with a faster, more expedient checkout, in addition to offering other perks including access to a running total of how much their groceries would cost as walked through store aisles.

The company has not officially provided details on the incidents, but according to media reports, the company made a statement, “Unfortunately, the losses we are experiencing prevent us from continuing to make it available in its current state. We’ve made the decision to turn off the app until we can make improvements that will meet the needs of our customers and business.”

Wegmans introduced SCAN on the heels of Amazon’s efforts to promote its cashier-free Amazon Go stores. Several other brick-and-mortar retailers subsequently tried to compete with Amazon by offering their versions of scan-and-go apps. This option resonates with younger, tech-savvy consumers. However, scan-and-go has led to unintentional drawbacks for retailers, namely increased shoplifting, fraud and other problems at a rate higher than would have happened at checkout lanes manned by individuals.