Will AI Replace
Cashiers?
Yes, AI and automation will replace approximately 85-90% of traditional cashier positions by 2030, though implementation has proven more challenging than expected
The Path to AI Replacement
Early Self-Checkout Implementation
Initial widespread adoption of self-checkout systems in major retail chains and supermarkets
Amazon Go Launch
Amazon opened its first cashierless Amazon Go store to the public after testing the technology since 2016
COVID-19 Acceleration
Pandemic conditions accelerated adoption of contactless checkout solutions and highlighted vulnerabilities of labor-intensive business models
Self-Checkout Market Growth
Global self-checkout market grew 12% with 217,000 new terminals installed worldwide
Amazon Just Walk Out Scaling Back
Amazon closed majority of Go stores and removed cashierless technology from Whole Foods after finding AI still required significant human oversight
Projected Major Displacement
Estimated period when 600,000+ cashier positions will be eliminated through combined effects of automation and e-commerce
Watch More
Why Self-Checkout Failed to Replace Cashiers
Tools replacing Cashiers
Self-Checkout Systems
Automated checkout systems allowing customers to scan and pay for items without cashier assistance
Amazon Go Just Walk Out Technology
System using computer vision, deep learning algorithms, and sensor fusion to enable shopping without traditional checkout
Digital Ordering Systems
Mobile and kiosk-based ordering systems that bypass the need for order-taking cashiers