A new supermarket scanning device plans to take the queuing out of shopping.
The device could be described as a gadget, a gizmo or a thingamajig but the intention is that it will eliminate the dreaded supermarket queues. This hi-tech system is being tested out at Superquinn, Lucan where customers give their experiences of using it. The 'Super-scan' device allows customers to check out their own goods in a D.I.Y. style as they do their shopping.
The handheld device scans the barcodes which are printed on every item in the shop and provides the customer with a running total of their bill. Once you have finished shopping, you place the device in the base unit and collect a coded printout that you present at the super-scan checkout for payment.
It is estimated that the checkout time should be about 30 seconds. Eamonn Quinn, Superquinn, says that the system is based on the trust of their customers to a certain extent. However, random checks will take place from time to time. Customers describe the efficiency, accuracy, and speed of the new system.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 22 August 1996. The reporter is Lorraine Smith.
