Overview
- Kaufland and Lidl state customers can use self‑checkout and Scan&Go without any item or value limits, pairing the policy with upgrades such as Kaufland’s K‑Scan QR transfer and Lidl’s larger trays.
- Self‑service terminals now account for roughly one in 18 tills nationwide, with Lidl expanding Scan&Go installations since 2023.
- Shoppers and frontline staff report longer queues, repeated technical interventions and frustration when staffed lanes stay closed while SB areas require constant assistance.
- Supermarkets are tightening loss‑prevention with receipt‑activated exit gates, random basket checks, video surveillance and AI systems that flag suspicious carts; an Aldi in‑store sign warning about cameras drew online ridicule.
- Consumer advocates note that bag checks without concrete suspicion are generally not permitted, though stores can issue bans if customers refuse spot inspections.