Lidl Introduces Cashless Self-Service Checkouts & Shoppers Aren't Happy

• Lidl is rolling out card-only self-service checkouts in some stores.
• Cash is still accepted at manned checkouts.
• Many customers, particularly those who prefer using cash to manage their budgets, are upset by the change.
• Lidl has not confirmed how many stores are affected by this shift.

Lidl has made a significant change at its self-service checkouts, which could leave many customers frustrated. In certain stores, the budget supermarket has introduced card-only self-checkouts, leaving cash payments restricted to the manned tills.

Signs have been placed in affected stores, reading, "Self-checkouts are now card only. You can still use cash at the till." The change has sparked concerns, especially among those who rely on cash for budgeting. Martin Quinn, founder of Campaign for Cash, told The Sun that this decision alienates Lidl’s core demographic.

“By moving away from cash, it’s as if they don’t understand their customers, many of whom use cash to budget and control their spending,” Quinn commented. “This change will mean longer waits at the few remaining staffed checkouts for cash users.”

This update from Lidl follows a broader trend seen across the UK, where many businesses are transitioning towards cashless transactions due to the convenience and speed of digital payments. However, the shift is controversial, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, who rely heavily on cash.

Tom Church, Co-Founder of LatestDeals.co.uk, added, "This move by Lidl is part of a growing trend, but it’s important that we don’t forget about the needs of cash users, who often rely on it to manage spending effectively."