‘Call me old-fashioned’: Sam Neill takes a stand against self service checkouts

Since their introduction, self-service checkouts have proven to be a divisive issue among shoppers. On one side, fans applaud the speed and convenience they offer. On the other, critics worry that automation is slowly eroding the human touch in an increasingly digital world.

Now beloved actor Sam Neill has thrown his hat into the ring, sharing his stance on the matter.

Taking to Instagram, Neill revealed that he prefers a more traditional approach when he does his grocery shopping.

“Call me old-fashioned,” he began.

“Thank you, but I refuse to check out my own groceries at a supermarket. I want a human being to assist me. I don’t think that’s too much to ask.

“And every time I check out something for myself — you got to think like this — I’m doing someone out of a job. And if robots and self-serving is going to do all the work everywhere, who’s going to be buying the groceries at the checkout? It’s an old-fashioned question, but it’s a legitimate one, I think.”

 

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Neill’s stance struck a chord with fans, many quick to echo his sentiments.

“Agree 100% and would like to add we need more human interactions to regain some of the empathy, kindness, compassion, and politeness that seem to be evaporating the last few years,” one wrote.

“I agree. If they want me to check out my own groceries then I’m going to pop into the employee breakroom for a snack.”

“I wish we could turn back the clock a bit and we could all be “old-fashioned’ again!” commented another.

“I will not do it too!! I love chatting to the person at the cash register. It makes a difference to us both I think.”

Neill’s take on self-checkouts is sure to add fuel to the ongoing debate between convenience and connection. Our Starts at 60 readers are no exception, with diverse opinions on this hot topic.

Some over-60s swear by the efficiency of self-service checkouts, praising quick transactions and shorter lines for their convenience.

On the flip side, some value the human connection in shopping. They fondly remember the days when friendly cashiers handled transactions and advocate for a return to more personalised retail experiences.

As the debate rages on, it seems the battle between self-service checkouts and the human touch may come down to personal preference.

Read more: Efficiency vs friendly faces: Over 60s sound off on the self-service checkout revolution