In recent years, Woolworths has made various changes to its operations to improve the experience of its customers. One of these is the implementation of COVID-19-related strategies in its stores.
These include installing safety screens at self-checkout counters, establishing direct-to-boot shopping programs, and implementing cash recycling machines in Metro locations.
Some of these changes have already been rolled back.
However, as the company continues to improve its operations, more changes will be implemented in the future.
In 2020, it was revealed that the majority of its Metro stores have cash recycling machines.
These machines allow the company’s team members to focus on their core business of serving its customers.
The company claims that the machines make it easier for customers to complete their purchases by allowing them to do so in the same way they would at a self-service checkout.
In NSW, two non-Metro supermarkets have been testing the cash recycling machines since 2021.
In 2021, the company introduced Direct to Boot, which has already received over 250,000 orders every week.
In May, it expanded the program by launching Direct To Boot Now, which allows consumers to place orders online and pick them up in 190 of its stores.
In addition, the company introduced hybrid stores, which are designed to make the process of shopping easier and quicker.
According to the company, the hybrid stores are designed to meet the changing needs of its customers by combining manned and self-serve registers.
It also noted that the increasing number of small and frequent basket sizes has prompted customers to prefer the latter.
While some customers prefer to be served by a staff member, the company noted that it is working to provide its customers with the best possible experience by using data collected from its customers.
According to the company, about 83 percent of its customers with a 20 or fewer item basket prefer to use self-service checkout.
Most customers, however, prefer to have a staff member at the checkout counter if they have over 20 items.
According to the company, more than 800 of its stores have already been equipped with express lanes.
The company claims that this new format allows its customers to have a great experience while still being served by a friendly team member.