In an era where digital technology is advancing rapidly, many people are refusing to use self-checkout machines in stores because they believe these machines are taking jobs away from workers. A study initiated in Canada by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) reveals that many Canadians are firmly against the deployment and use of self-checkout systems.

One shopper, Dan Morris, shared his concerns in an interview with CBC, saying, “They’re trying to herd everyone in, get everyone used to self-checkouts to cut down on staff. Machines don’t pay taxes. They don’t pay into the pension plan.”

Are Self-Checkout Machines Killing Jobs?

The majority of participants in the CBC study agree with Dan’s viewpoint, expressing concern that self-checkout machines could lead to job losses and push families into financial distress. Tom Eburne, a resident of Chilliwack, British Columbia, is one of those who completely refuses to use self-checkout machines for these reasons. He is determined to do whatever he can to keep cashiers employed and ensure that real people remain in the workforce.

“We will resist as long as we can. I think any job loss is a step backwards,” Tom says. Other shoppers argue that self-checkout machines harm the economy, and they believe that if these machines become ubiquitous, thousands of people could lose their jobs.

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