The COVID 19 pandemic has changed the (consumer) behaviour of people worldwide. Even though things have calmed down somewhat, some will continue to maintain these changes in their daily routine and the way they shop. Christian Dieterich, Managing Director of PerfectMoney, explains: "Spontaneous purchases no longer take place as frequently, because fewer people are on the streets. Many companies offer their employees the opportunity to work from home - this eliminates the need for them to travel to work and you in turn have fewer walk-in customers."
"Also, we have seen how employees struggled with the new rules, especially in the beginning - during the introduction of the tightened lockdown measures. Obligation to wear masks, distance rules or limits on the number of people who are allowed in the shops at the same time characterise the buying behaviour of consumers. Less comfort for customers can also result in a drop in sales."
Self-scan machines in the catering trade.
For this reason, the company recently compiled two white papers with tips and measures for retailers and traders. "The fact is: Corona is leading to less purchases. Therefore, we would like to provide our customers with some information on where resources can be raised and how to offer customers more convenience, in order to keep sales losses as low as possible."
Right: 
Self-scan checkout for beverage bottles as used in the duty free area at the Berlin-Tegel Airport.
Customer convenience advantage: self-scan checkouts
Self-scan cash registers are already widespread in many neighbouring countries. In Germany, the development is still progressing at a somewhat slower pace, Dieterich is surprised: "A recent survey has shown that the number of self-scanning cash registers in Germany is still growing: Almost 50 % of consumers want services like self-scan checkouts. Two important factors play a role with regard to self-scan checkouts: waiting time and the time it takes to make a payment. 62% of those surveyed stated that the queues at self-service checkouts are shorter. Some 35% finished their shopping faster compared to those using the normal checkouts."
Horst Twelkemeier at expoSe/expoDirekt last November.
However, this is not only a step for large chains: "This technology is also worthwhile in smaller shops. Because the time factor is playing an increasingly important role for customers. This is why this option of completing the purchase themselves is becoming increasingly important to them. Self-scan checkouts can be an absolute advantage, especially in conurbations with many smaller purchases."
With the introduction of the self-checkout procedure at some of the larger players, the acceptance and expectations of the customers have
risen much faster, Dieterich knows. "In times of infection protection and avoidance of queues, this payment concept seems all the more appropriate and, above all, more economical."
At the same time, this system does not require any personnel: "This is a very future-oriented solution that offers your customers flexibility and more hygiene because it interrupts the contact chain."
For more information:
PerfectMoney (from DCSI AG)
Talheimer Straße 22-24
74223 Flein bei Heilbronn
Deutschland
Tel: +49 7131 15588-200
E-Mail: info@perfect-money.de
Website: www.perfect-money.de