Traders Joe’s Still Refuses To Add Self-Checkout: Customers Shouldn’t Have To Work

Author Carla Rea

May 31st 7:30 AM

Traders Joe's Refuses To Add Self-Checkout: Customers Shouldn't Have To Work

Trader Joe’s said “no way” to self checkout a long time ago. Now Walmart is removing many of their self-check out kiosks/counters. They say due to theft. How about just plain customer service.

You love it, and you hate it — but checking yourself out has pretty much become the norm at grocery stores in Las Vegas.

Trader Joe’s Refuses to Add Self Checkout: It’s Work!

But Trader Joe’s said, NOPE — they’re not doing it. Not even a little bit. They will avoid the option altogether.

On a podcast last year, CEO Bryan Palbaum and President Jon Basalone were asked by the host about a rumor that was going around, that Trader Joe’s planned to add self-checkout lanes to its stores. “That’s as false as false can be,” Basalone said. “We believe in people. We’re not trying to get rid of our crew members for efficiency’s sake.”

Trader Joe’s President Tried Self Checkout And Hated It

Basalone talked about a time he couldn’t get a self-checkout kiosk at another grocery store to scan an item and had to get help from an employee. “I do this for a living, and I can’t get this thing to work,” he said.

CEO Bryan Palbaum says self-checkout is work. He doesn’t want that, and doesn’t want people to have to work when they go grocery shopping.

In the beginning, I think self-checkout was a novelty for all of us. I mean how cool, I can do it myself! Basalone has made it clear that Trader Joe’s doesn’t want to put anyone out of work, and self-checkout is definitely an easy way to do that, because you don’t need to pay a living wage to a machine.

Stores from Target to Hudson News, right here in Las Vegas at Harry Reid International Airport, have added self-checkout lanes to their stores. But now, many are also cutting back. Either on the kiosks, or the amount of items you can take through.

On the other end of the map, Kroger converted one of its Tennessee stores into a self-checkout only location last year. We’ll see where they are on that as time moves on.

Are They Flirting With Me

By the way, Basalone and Palbaum debunked a rumor regarding Trader Joe’s: That Trader Joe’s employees are trained to flirt with customers.

Trader Joe’s employees are known for being very friendly and chatty, but they are never instructed to be flirtatious. Only to offer the best customer service possible.

Personally, I think it helps. Because I never dread shopping at TRader Joe’s!

Carla Rea is the morning show co-host on “The Mike and Carla Morning Show" on 96.3 KKLZ, in Las Vegas. She has been working with her partner and friend Mike O'Brian for the past 25 plus years. At KKLZ for 12 years. Carla Rea is a Gracie Award winner. She started out in talk radio, "when talk radio was still fun" Rea says. Prior to, and along with doing the morning show, Carla is also a comedian. You may have seen her on Conan O'Brien, Evening at The Improv, Showtime, or several comedy clubs across the country. Carla also worked as a light feature reporter at KSNV/NBC Las Vegas, going behind the scenes at various shows, and restaurants on the Las Vegas strip. As a content creator 96.3 KKLZ, Carla writes in a sarcastic, cheeky, unapologetic way on Las Vegas, movies, TV, celebrities, and this thing we call life.

Steer Clear: 8 Grocery Store Behaviors to Avoid

Going to the grocery store is a routine task for many of us. It’s a place where we gather the essentials of daily life, and it can be a bit of a chore. Supermarkets are often busy and filled with several shoppers, and the experience can sometimes be overwhelming. One factor that can significantly impact our grocery store trips is the behavior of fellow shoppers. Many of us have left the grocery store in a less-than-stellar mood, whether it’s due to pushiness, rudeness, or simply being inconsiderate.

Grocery Store Behaviors

Supermarkets are like mini universes where everyone’s in their own little world. As we navigate the aisles and make our selections, it’s important to be mindful of our actions and how they can affect others. Being a considerate grocery shopper means being aware of your surroundings and thinking about others. This involves avoiding behaviors such as blocking aisles with your cart, leaving your cart unattended in inconvenient spots, or engaging in loud phone conversations that can disturb others. Instead, keep your cart to one side, move efficiently, and keep noise levels considerate.

Respecting personal space is another key aspect of good grocery shopping etiquette. We all move at different paces when we shop. And nobody likes feeling crowded, especially when trying to pick out your cereal. Don’t tailgate fellow shoppers, and if someone’s in your way, just be patient or politely ask if you can “scooch” past.

When it comes to selecting products, don’t turn into the hoarder of items, which can lead to empty shelves and inconvenience for others. Buying up everything in sight just creates stress for others. Grab what you need and leave some for the rest of us, especially during those crazy times when everyone’s stocking up. Also, don’t open packages or start sampling stuff unless the store gives you the green light.

Grocery shopping etiquette might not be rocket science, but it sure makes life easier for everyone. Since we spend so much time in these stores, let’s make it a good experience for everyone. Just be mindful of what you’re doing, respect personal space, and don’t be a hoarder or a package opener. The next time you’re on a grocery shopping adventure, remember that a little consideration can go a long way in making it enjoyable for you and your fellow shoppers.

Take a look at some additional grocery store behaviors to avoid below.

Disrespecting Employees
This should be common sense, but one of the fundamental rules of grocery store etiquette is to treat employees with respect and kindness. While it’s understandable to occasionally have moments of price shock or policy gripes. But don’t take it out on the people working at the grocery store. They’re not the ones setting the prices. Venting your frustration on employees is never the right approach. Refrain from raising your voice or engaging in arguments with cashiers and staff members on the sales floor.

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Packing Out the Express Checkout
We all love the quick in-and-out experience of using self-checkout for those small hauls. But the self-service lane loses its charm when people with massive shopping carts, loaded with groceries decide to set up camp there. It’s even worse when they have items needing special codes. So, think of self-checkout as the express lane, where it’s best to stick to around ten items or less. Using the express checkout lane with more items than the posted limit can hold up the line for others who are following the rules. It’s worth mentioning that many grocery stores are opting for more self-checkout lanes in their stores.

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Aisle Bites
You’ve probably seen people snacking on food they haven’t paid for yet at the grocery store. Some even take half-eaten items to the cashier to scan. This is not only rude but also unhygienic. It’s like treating the store as your personal buffet and it makes others uncomfortable. While satisfying your cravings is perfectly fine, there are better ways to go about it.

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Grocery Blocker
You’re bound to bump into a friend or neighbor while grocery shopping, but consider where you stop for a chat. If you see someone eyeing the produce behind you, it’s a good sign to wrap up and find a quieter spot. Keep in mind that grocery store catch-ups should be relatively short. It’s not the ideal time for lengthy reunions, especially if others are waiting to shop. The same courtesy applies to your shopping cart. Don’t park your cart smack in the middle and block the way for everyone else.

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Stashing Unwanted Groceries and Trash
If you change your mind about something while shopping, do everyone a favor and return it to where it belongs. Dumping unwanted items in random aisles instead of returning them to their proper creates frustration for both store employees and fellow shoppers. Nobody wants to discover a rogue carton of buttermilk sitting next to the potato chips. It makes the store messy, confuses people, and turns a simple grocery trip into a weird scavenger hunt. In some grocery stores, you might find cafes where you can stroll the aisles with a coffee or beverage in hand. Chances are you’ve come across half-empty Starbucks cups or abandoned water bottles among the store shelves. When you’ve finished your drink, it’s best to dispose of the cup or bottle properly.

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Leaving Your Grocery Cart Wherever
Bringing back your shopping cart is the most basic form of grocery store courtesy. Returning your shopping cart is a quick task and it’s a huge help for the store staff. Additionally, left-behind carts can lead to more significant problems. A deserted cart in the parking area may potentially cause damage to vehicles. A cart left behind inside can cause a roadblock in the store.

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Lack of Personal Space
When we’re shopping at the grocery store, give people their personal space. Whether browsing the aisles for your favorite snacks or waiting in line at the checkout, respecting personal space is key. No one likes feeling crowded or rushed while making their selections, and we all appreciate a bit of privacy when completing our transactions.

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Rude Cellphone Usage
When you’re at the store, try not to use your phone too much. It’s okay to make a quick call to roomie to ask about ketchup, but keep it quiet and brief. Save the catching up for later. Also, don’t text and push your cart at the same time because you might bump into something or someone. Lastly, unless you’re using your phone for digital coupons or rewards, it’s best to put it away during checkout.

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