JC Stewart’s EUROSPAR in Magherafelt is a cherished, family-run grocery store and one of 12 locations operated by DSP Supermarkets. With over 120 years of service to the community, JC Stewart’s takes pride in its local partnerships.
They collaborate with schools to provide fresh fruit, snacks, and water for sports day events. The store also hosts regular in-store sampling days and supports local charities. JC Stewarts have implemented both Henderson Technology’s EDGEPoS Electronic Shelf- Edge Labels (ESELs) and Self-Service Checkouts (SCOs) within its store.
Andrew Scott, Store Manager since 2022 at JC Stewarts stated, ‘Both, ESELs and SCOs have resulted in significant operational efficiencies, enhanced customer satisfaction through improved visual appearance and met consumer demands through increased store sustainability. This has contributed to a loyal consumer base, profitability, and overall business success”.
Benefits of Self-Checkout Systems (SCOs) and Glory
The introduction of SCO systems has significantly enhanced staff organisation and operational efficiency for Andrew. By allowing better deployment of staff, JC Stewarts can allocate resources more effectively, ensuring that employees are positioned where they are needed most.
Customer Convenience
Andrew also found that customer satisfaction has seen a notable improvement through the personalised service offered by self-checkout systems. These systems accommodate customers in a hurry, such as those making short stops after school, by reducing waiting times. This blend of maintaining traditional belt systems while adapting to modern customer demands meets the needs of JC Stewarts diverse customer base.
Queue Management
On average, 49.8% of customers are using the self-checkout systems, significantly reducing queue times. Customers with baskets no longer need to queue alongside those with trolleys, allowing for quicker and more efficient service. SCOs accommodate both trolley and basket sales, and with a staff member always supervising the area, customers have the reassurance of assistance if needed. Additionally, having the integrated Ariva Scale on each SCO means that customers can weigh their loose fruit and veg without requiring staff assistance, which helps the queue move through more quickly.
Efficiency and Reliability
The Glory Cash-Management System has streamlined the cash handling process for Andrew, significantly reducing the time spent on counting and ensuring a more efficient operation. Andrew highlighted the system’s reliability, stating, ‘There have been no breakdowns or inefficiencies reported, which enhances the overall trustworthiness of store operations”.
Benefits of Electronic Shelf Edge Labels (ESELs)
ESELs promote better environmental practices by reducing paper wastage, contributing to a more sustainable store operation. This aligns with customer demands with EUROSPAR’s commitment to always increasing their corporate social responsibility.
Accuracy and Trust
Andrew mentioned how ESELs produce accurate pricing at all times, which has both boosted customer trust and confidence within the store. ESELs ensure that customers are always charged the accurate price, eliminating discrepancies, and enhancing the shopping experience.
Staff Efficiency
ESELs save staff time and reduce errors, leading to increased productivity. Andrew noted that ESELs help increase profit margins and reduce labour costs, confirming that the technology has positively impacted the store’s bottom line.
Professionalism and Modernised
The implementation of ESELs has enhanced the store’s professional and modern appearance. Andrew praised the spotless and eye-catching look, stating, “ESELs are very professional and modern, keeping everything clean and consistent”.
Customer Retention
ESELs encourage repeat business by ensuring pricing accuracy and allowing for instant pricing changes and promotions. Andrew emphasised the efficiency of ESELs saying, “You can make decisions quickly as ESELs can change instantly for pricing. Doing an instant promotion means the poster changes straight away again, saving time”.
Conclusion
The implementation of SCOs, Glory’s Cash-Management unit and ESELs at JC Stewarts EUROSPAR has resulted in significant operational efficiencies, enhanced their consumer base, and met current climate demands through improved sustainability. These advancements have contributed to repeat customers by meeting their various needs and boosted the store’s overall success and profitability. The insights from Store Manager Andrew underscores the transformative impact of these technologies on modern retail operations.
