The Co-op has announced a major shift in how customers pay for their groceries, introducing a new hybrid till system known as “flexi checkouts.” This initiative, described as a first for a national UK grocery retailer, aims to eliminate the frustration of closed lanes by ensuring that every till point can remain “open all hours.”
The Innovation of Dual-Screen Tills
The core of the new system is a bespoke dual-screen technology that allows a single till point to function in two different ways. Unlike traditional supermarket layouts that strictly separate staffed lanes from self-service zones, these innovative units can be converted instantly based on the store’s needs and customer flow.
The hardware for these checkouts is supplied by retail technology specialist Diebold Nixdorf, while the software was developed entirely in-house by Co-op’s own technology teams. This custom-built approach ensures that the interface is specifically tailored to the convenience store environment, where speed and ease of use are paramount for local shoppers.
- Screens display live price savings and membership deals
- The system supports both card and mobile payments
- Future updates will integrate parcel collection services
- Tills can switch modes in seconds during peak times
Balancing Personal Service and Speed
A primary goal of the flexi checkout rollout is to satisfy two very different types of shoppers: those who value a quick, autonomous transaction and those who prefer a friendly face-to-face interaction. By allowing any till to become a self-service station during quiet periods or a staffed lane when queues begin to build, the Co-op is attempting to bridge the gap between automation and human service.
David Tyas, Co-op’s Head of Operations Support Centre and Innovation, noted that while many customers enjoy engaging with store colleagues, others prioritize getting in and out as quickly as possible. This technology replaces existing rigid till structures with a more versatile alternative that supports the retailer’s commitment to high street communities.
Rollout Schedule and Store Investment
Following successful trials that showed a significant reduction in wait times, the Co-op is moving quickly to deploy the technology nationwide. The retailer plans to have flexi checkouts installed in 150 stores by April 2026, marking a significant investment in its physical estate.
- 150 stores will receive the new tills by the end of April
- The rollout follows successful real-world customer trials
- Staff are freed up to assist shoppers elsewhere on the shop floor
- The system is designed to handle “kiosk-only” purchases seamlessly
This technology launch coincides with a broader expansion strategy for the first quarter of 2026. The Co-op has already confirmed plans to open or refurbish 18 stores during this period, including a brand-new location in Willowbrook Park, Didcot, as it continues to strengthen its presence on UK high streets.
Future-Proofing the Convenience Experience
Beyond the immediate benefit of shorter queues, the flexi checkouts are designed with future capabilities in mind. The digital screens are already being used to promote the benefits of Co-op membership, but the retailer intends to expand their functionality to support the growing Co-op Media Network and local service integrations.
By making the checkout area more adaptable, the Co-op is positioning itself to handle the changing demands of the modern high street. Whether a customer is popping in for a pint of milk, collecting a parcel, or seeking advice from a staff member, the new “open all hours” till policy ensures that the point of payment is never a bottleneck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a “flexi checkout”?
A flexi checkout is a hybrid till with dual screens that can be used as either a staffed checkout or a self-service machine. This allows the store to keep every till point active regardless of staff availability.
Will I still be able to talk to a cashier?
Yes. The Co-op has emphasized that traditional cashier service is still a core part of their store experience. The flexi checkouts simply give the store the option to turn a till into self-service mode when a staff member needs to assist elsewhere.
Which stores will get the new tills?
The initial rollout covers 150 stores across the UK. These are primarily located in busy high street and community settings where wait times and speed of service are most critical.
Does this mean there will be fewer staff in stores?
The Co-op states that the technology actually allows staff to be more present on the shop floor. Instead of being anchored to a closed till, colleagues can engage with customers, restock shelves, or help with complex enquiries while the tills remain open for self-service.
Can I use these tills for parcel collections?
While the primary function is for grocery transactions, the Co-op has confirmed that future software updates will allow these screens to support parcel collection and other digital community services.
