Scanning items at checkout
Retail Worker · Cashier
“Scanning items at checkout” (Retail Worker) was largely replaced by AI in 2026, after AI entered in 2016.
AI enters
2016
Largely replaced
2026
Replacement progress
100%
Technology / key factor
Self-checkout / cashierless stores
What this task is
Cashiers scan each item's barcode, weigh loose produce, apply promotions and loyalty points, and bag groceries, often under pressure from long queues at peak hours.
How AI replaces it
Self-checkout kiosks let shoppers scan their own goods, and camera-and-sensor cashierless stores let them just walk out; both spread through supermarkets and convenience stores from 2016. By 2026, checkout scanning in most stores is done mainly by customers or systems.
What stays human
Staff oversee banks of self-checkout machines, fix scanning errors, verify age-restricted items such as alcohol and tobacco, and help customers who are unfamiliar with the machines.