Inclusive cash registers are being tested in Ukraine: Silpo chain has implemented new solutions
19 August 20:31
Silpo, one of the largest grocery chains in Ukraine, has announced the patenting of innovative solutions for self-service checkouts aimed at increasing convenience and accessibility for different categories of customers. This is the first large-scale case in Ukrainian retail where inclusiveness becomes not only a social initiative but also a part of the company’s technological development, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports citing All Retail.
The list of patented developments includes an inclusive checkout format, special mounts for crutches, canes, walking sticks, umbrellas and backpacks, as well as improved bag holders. Such solutions will make the shopping process more comfortable for people with disabilities, elderly visitors, parents with children, and even those who just come to the store with bulky items.
The project was developed by Silpo’s R&D laboratory in cooperation with the guest experience department, operations department, and store employees. A veteran was involved in the development to help identify the key needs of people with mobility issues. Interestingly, the final version of the package holder was suggested by a cashier at a Kyiv supermarket.
Compliance with international standards
Inclusive checkouts are designed to comply with international standards such as WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and the American ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act). This means that they take into account the ergonomic needs of wheelchair users, people of short stature, and children.
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Large Ukrainian chains are testing inclusive checkouts: new solutions from SilpoScaling the solution
The first inclusive cash desks have already been installed in Odesa, Lviv and Kamianets-Podilskyi. In the near future, the company plans to extend this solution to all of its stores in Ukraine. This could become a new standard of customer service for the retail market and an additional competitive advantage for the company.
Retail experts predict that Silpo’s inclusive checkouts could be a boost for the entire industry. The competition in the grocery market is tough, and large chains are forced to look for new tools to maintain customer loyalty. The inclusivity-oriented format opens up several prospects at once.
First, it is reputational capital. In times of war and social transformation, businesses that demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable groups receive additional support from society. This creates trust in the brand and increases its recognition.
Secondly, inclusive solutions can increase customer traffic. Experts estimate that people with disabilities and their families form a significant part of the consumer audience, which has often experienced barriers in conventional retail spaces.
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Third, innovations in the self-service segment have an economic effect. Such cash registers reduce the workload on staff, speed up the service process and reduce queues, which has a positive impact on the average check and overall store efficiency.
In the future, other chains, such as ATB and Novus, may start implementing similar formats to keep up with the trend. This could turn inclusivity from a local initiative into a new standard for the entire industry.
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