// Primark trials self-checkout services in stores to see if it can speed up the checkout process

// Some shoppers have criticised the move because it may encourage shoplifting

Primark is trialling self-checkouts to see if it can accelerate its checkout process for those with fewer items.

The value fashion retailer said the trial will help cut down the time that customers will have to queue for.

However, some shoppers have criticised the move because it may encourage shoplifting behaviours, despite many Primark stores employing heavy security.

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A Primark spokesperson told Retail Gazette that the retailer launched the trial of self-service checkouts in its Sheffield and Northampton stores earlier this year.

“The response so far has been really positive, especially from customers who are short on time or making smaller purchases,” the spokesperson said.

“We’re rolling the trial out to our West Bromwich, Kingston and Coventry stores in the coming weeks to help us understand further the benefits that self-service checkouts bring.”

One shopper posted a TikTok video of the trial saying her Primark self-checkout experience was “bougee”.

In the short clip, people can be seen scanning their own items and putting them into Primark’s trademark bags.

She was then seen scanning the barcode on her receipt, then the security doors opened to let her out.