News

Cashierless purchase option not a big want on retail's main street

May 28, 2019

When it comes to what shoppers want from small main street retailers, it isn't all about having a cashierless purchase experience.

A Cox Business survey reveals consumers want a "greater connection" and more U.S.-made products, according to a press release.

The research stated cashierless shopping is only gaining interest among the very young shopper segment, those 18 to 29 years old, and that 77% of those polled prefer to interact with a cashier at checkout.

"While big box brands are forced to prioritize uniformity across their markets, small businesses can — and should — emphasize what makes them different," said Steve Rowley, executive vice president of Cox Business, in the release. "From service to customer loyalty, small businesses are known for personalized experiences that will ultimately allow them to survive in the ever increasingly competitive commerce segment."

Other findings include:

• 77% would spend more money at a small business that supported a positive social or environmental cause.
• Just over half of consumers reported they would stop supporting a small business if the causes they supported weren't in line with their social or environmental views.