Co-op is introducing new flexi-checkouts with dual screens that can be operated by cashiers or become a self-service till, allowing the purchase points to remain ‘open all hours’.

This move aims to enhance customer choice and convenience by extending the time for tills, thus reducing waiting times and queues at the retailer.

Additionally, the technology gives front-of-shop staff more time to engage with customers and respond to enquires, according to the business.

This marks the debut of the new technology among grocery retailers, with the new checkout points set to roll out to around 150 stores by April.

The digital screens display customers’ price savings, deals and promotions, and the traditional cashier services will be operational for kiosk-only purchases and shoppers who prefer interaction.

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David Tyas, Co-op’s head of operations support centre and innovation, said: “We’re focused on creating stores which contribute to local life and conveniently meet the needs of communities.

“We know that many customers enjoy engaging with our friendly colleagues in store, while for others a quick transaction is key, and so our latest checkout technology replaces our existing tills with the added flexibility to do both.”

The new checkout tills were supplied by the retailer’s partner Diebold Nixdorf, with the software created in-house by Co-op’s own technology teams.

The announcement comes after the retailer confirmed plans to open 18 stores in the first quarter of 2026 last month.