Muji introduces self checkouts

Japanese chain Muji has contracted NCR to supply self checkout machines for a trial in its Japanese stores.

In doing so, it becomes the first non-grocery retailer in the nation to adopt self checkout technology.

Muji, a quirky anti-brand department store chain selling homewares, stationery, apparel, giftwares and foods, has a growing global footprint after achieving significant success in its home market, and wider Asia.

NCR says Muji, owned by Ryohin Keikaku Co, will deploy the NCR SelfServ 90 terminals.

“The NCR SelfServ 90 was designed to be highly versatile with configurations for a pedestal mount, a wall-mount and a countertop stand.”

A pilot implementation for Muji department stores will include installations in high-traffic locations inside terminal buildings and metro areas, as well as other stand-alone locations. The Muji store in Yurakucho, Japan is the site of the initial installation.

Dusty Lutz, GM of self-checkout solutions with NCR Retail, said the terminals are intended to attract shoppers who are purchasing just a few items and are paying with a credit or debit card.

“The benefit is to get them out of the store in record time – saving them from waiting in lines or leaving in frustration without making a purchase.”

Historically, during peak times Muji experiences queues with more than 20 people in line, many with just a few items and some leaving without making a purchase due to time constraints.

The NCR SelfServ 90 has an EMV compliant card reader for credit and debit card purchases, and its contactless support handles e-currency that is gaining wide acceptance in Japan.

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