Tesco discontinues the use of cash payments at forty cafés.
In 40 of its cafes, Tesco has eliminated the use of currency, requiring clients to pay with a card at self-service devices.
The supermarket colossus claims that the overhaul has improved the customer experience and that the changes have been well-received. However, critics have criticized the move as “bonkers” and have expressed concern that it could alienate elderly consumers.
Martin Quinn, of Campaign for Cash, referred to the modification as a “mad decision.”
He stated, “A significant number of customers will be elderly or retirees who prefer to place their orders in person rather than using a computer screen.” This decision is an act of madness.
As of now, 40 cafés have been redesigned, and it is anticipated that additional ones will be added in the near future.
The electronic transformation will affect sites in Oldham, Sheerness, Newmarket, and Ashford in Middlesex.
Before Givex, a technology firm, collaborated with the supermarket to renovate numerous cafés, a pilot program was implemented last year.
According to a spokesperson for Tesco, the implementation of digital displays for food ordering has resulted in a decrease in queue times.
The move was excessively confusing consumers, according to Sarah Gayton, of the National Federation of the Blind, a UK charity.
She stated, “It is an entirely absurd and retrograde action.”
“Elderly individuals frequent these locations to engage in conversation, discuss the weather, and discuss their personal lives.”
“It may only be a few minutes of the day, but that conversation is extremely valuable.” What is the reason for their confusion regarding croissants and coffee?
“Indeed, it is imperative for organizations to generate revenue in order to sustain their operations; however, it is detrimental to transform customers into autonomous robots.”
“What are the expected coping mechanisms for visually impaired individuals?”
Mr. Quinn further stated, “The cafes are essentially expressing that they do not desire your patronage, as the majority of their patrons will be cash users.” He further stated, “People will, quite rightly, vote with their feet and relocate to other locations.” It is an entirely sterile experience.
Additionally, consumers who are dissatisfied with the modifications have utilized social media platforms to express their frustration.
A user on X stated, “At a Tesco cafe, it is no longer possible to converse with a human being and place an order; instead, you must utilize a machine.” Numerous elderly individuals have been perplexed.
Another X user wrote, “I visited a Tesco cafe in Broadstairs, Kent, to do some shopping, but I first wanted to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee. The cafe has recently been renovated.” I was unable to do so due to the fact that they do not accept cash or Tesco gift cards as payment.
In the previous year, Marks & Spencer implemented comparable modifications to its cafés, mandating that customers utilize touchscreens to place their orders.
However, Morrisons’ CEO acknowledged this month that the supermarket chain “went a bit too far” with self-checkouts, as the company announced that it would reduce the technology in a portion of its stores.
Tesco has stated that it will always have a staff member available to assist those who are experiencing financial difficulties, and no positions have been lost as a result of the changes.
The supermarket corporation reiterated its dedication to maintaining currency as a payment method in its other stores.