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Supermarket in Japan creates slow checkout for seniors and people with disabilities and records 10% increase in sales, also winning over customers looking for more peace of mind.
A supermarket in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, has found a curious way to improve the experience for its customers: it has created a slow checkout, where no one is forced to rush.
The unexpected measure brought positive results. According to recent information, the establishment registered a 10% increase in sales after the implementation.
A new concept for an old problem
Most modern supermarkets aim to speed up checkout service. After all, time is precious and many customers feel uncomfortable with long lines.
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For those who are elderly, have a disability or are pregnant, this pressure is even greater. These people often avoid going out to shop, fearing the discomfort of being seen as “slow".
However, this supermarket in Fukuoka decided to tackle the problem head on. It created a checkout where service is provided without rushing.
There, customers can calmly count their money, pack their purchases at their own pace and even talk to the attendant, without feeling disapproving looks. There is no time limit and, if necessary, the person can spend more than 20 minutes completing the purchase.
The inspiration for change
The idea for the slow cash register came from Ms. Abe Nana of the Fukuoka Prefectural Alzheimer's Disease Support Center.
She knew from direct experience how many older people feel uncomfortable and even embarrassed about not being able to keep up with the fast pace of supermarkets.
Concerned about this situation, Abe Nana suggested the creation of a special cash register. The goal was to provide a welcoming space for the elderly, pregnant women and people with disabilities, without the typical anxiety of fast-track queues. The proposal was accepted and quickly implemented in the supermarket.
Positive results and popular support
The new initiative was featured on the program “Everyone Is Sunny“, on Japanese TV. It was so successful that, in addition to winning over the original target audience, the slow cash register began to be used by other customers.
People who simply don't like the pressure of fast-track queues have also come to prefer this model.
According to the supermarket, the result was immediate: sales increased by around 10%.
In addition, the store began to attract a more loyal clientele, made up of consumers looking for a more human and less rushed shopping experience.
An idea that can spread
It is not yet known whether the supermarket intends to introduce the model to other stores. However, reactions on social media suggest that there is great interest in the concept.
Many comments praised the initiative and highlighted the need to think more about people's real needs.
“It would be great if there were supermarkets like this near me,” said one user. Another commented: “When we seek efficiency at all costs, we forget the most important things.”
Fukuoka's experience shows that sometimes slowing down can be the best way to grow.
