Hello everyone! This time I would like to introduce the latest Checkout System in Japanese Supermarkets.
This is a supermarket located in an Aeon Mall, which is located throughout Japan.
This summer (2022), shopping carts of an unusual shape started to be lined up. I was curious about it, so I decided to try it out. It is called “レジゴー (Regi-Go),” and it seems that by using it, you can smoothly pay your bill without queuing at the cash register.
Install this special device. Looks like a smart phone.
Instructions for use can be displayed, and the language can be switched to English and Chinese in addition to Japanese.
When you add items to your shopping cart, you scan them yourself with a bar code.
You can see the items in your basket and the total amount in real time.
We line up at this cashier for cashier go. If you do not bring your own bag and need a plastic bag(s), you can get them at the cashier. The price is 3 yen per small bag and 5 yen per large bag. The barcode on the plastic bag is also read by the “Regi-Go” device.
I said, “You don’t have to wait in line at the register to pay your bill,” but as more people use Regi-Go, of course you’ll have to wait in line 💦 but for now it’s significantly emptier than other regular cash registers.
There are a few dedicated Regi-Go staff standing by to assist you.
We accept various types of credit cards, various types of electronic money (prepaid, QR payment), cash, voucher, and gift token.
Hold up the QR on the Regi-Go device to confirm the payment.
Return the device to its designated location and you are done.
Impressions after use
As we don’t need to wait in line at the general checkout, which is nice and time-saving during busy times! It’s also nice to know how much I’m spending at all times.
However, the app still seems to freeze or crash from time to time. The last time I used it, it crashed at the end of my shopping trip and I had to reread the barcode from scratch, which was extra time consuming and tedious.
How to deal with problems such as unauthorized use and forgetting to read barcodes on products may also be a future issue for stores.
If the supermarket is less busy, it is much more comfortable to shop and wait in line at the checkout as usual. I’d suggest you decide if you want to use it based on the time of day you’re shopping!
How was it?
We have introduced the latest situation of supermarket checkout in Japan. Is the checkout process smooth in your country?
Thank you for reading. Have a great grocery shopping!
If you like, you can read our other articles as well.