Walmart is getting rid of its cashiers at its Terrace store in northwest B.C., and replacing them with self-serve checkouts this summer as part of a test project along with a select number of other outlets in Canada.
In a statement by email to The Terrace Standard, Walmart Canada said its Terrace store was selected as a test location because a large number of its customers were using self-checkouts.
“Our business is transforming and we’re relentlessly focused on making our stores simpler and faster for our customers. That’s why we’re constantly innovating and trying new initiatives so we can be the very best retailer,” said spokesperson Felicia Fefer.
“Our customers have embraced self-checkouts as they’ve rolled out across the country over the past few years,” she added.
The corporation reiterated that, though Walmart will eliminate cashier positions here, that does not necessarily mean an overall job loss.
“Over the years we’ve heard concerns that self-checkouts will impact jobs but that’s simply not the case. The self-checkout area will be staffed by dedicated associates to help our customers and there will be no job loss as a result of this change,” said Fefer.
She said in the coming months, as Terrace branch prepares to launch an online grocery purchase option, 40 more people will be hired.
