Sainsbury's shoppers have taken to social media to express their anger over a new rule that requires customers to scan their receipts before leaving the store. The measure, introduced in some UK branches, forces shoppers to prove they have paid for items as an extra security step.
Many customers have criticised the change, calling it 'insulting' and a sign of distrust. One social media user commented: 'I'd be b*ggered. I've never once hit the receipt button on the self-service till.' Another said the supermarket is 'holding people hostage against their will' by refusing to let them leave without scanning a receipt.
Environmental concerns were also raised, with one user saying: 'Doing great in your green initiative... forcing customers to print out their receipt and scan it. Absolutely atrocious!' Another added: 'What a step back for your environmental impact and sustainability. Shame on you!'
Some shoppers reported technical issues, with one saying: 'No one's receipts worked and there was a queue of about six people at lunchtime waiting to try and scan theirs.' However, a Sainsbury's spokesperson told the Mirror that the system is 'not a new security measure and features in a small number of our stores at the self-service checkout areas'.
The system is already used in many European supermarkets, and other UK retailers such as Primark, Ikea, and Costco have similar measures in place. But for some loyal Sainsbury's customers, the change is a step too far, with one vowing: 'I’ve been loyal to Sainsbury’s for 30 years. Now it stops.'
