Lidl is bringing self-service checkouts with barriers throughout Austria!

Lidl is bringing self-service checkouts with barriers throughout Austria!

In Austria, the Lidl retail chain has taken a significant step into the future of shopping. Reported today, October 31, 2025 5min.at that Lidl has introduced self-service checkouts with exit gates in more than 80 branches. This change is intended to shorten waiting times and increase customer satisfaction. Customers must now show their invoice before they can leave the branch.

The introduction of these innovative systems is part of a gradual roll-out that will take place throughout Austria. While the first tests of self-service checkouts took place in Salzburg last year, the checkouts are now also available in Graz. Lidl describes these self-service solutions as a “customer-oriented solution” that not only speeds up the completion of shopping, but also relieves employees.

Technological development in retail

The automation of checkout areas reflects major changes in retail. Loud kauf-im-einzelhandel.de Traditional cash register systems have evolved and now include a mix of classic counters, machines and mobile solutions. The trade-off between speed and personal proximity still exists, but customers' expectations for speed, control and clear information have increased.

While self-checkout checkouts are not new, the latest technologies offer improved user interfaces and secure payment methods. In addition to the need to make customer flow efficient, these systems must also ensure accessibility. Customer loyalty is influenced by a positive payment experience, which is why the design of these touchpoints is crucial.

Impact on employees

The role of cashiers is changing with the introduction of these technologies. They are increasingly becoming “guides and problem solvers” as staff remain responsible for customer service. It is important that employees are trained in how to use the new systems to ensure smooth operations and high customer satisfaction. The acceptance of automated systems depends largely on the quality of support and troubleshooting kauf-im-einzelhandel.de emphasized.

The roll-out of self-service checkouts is taking place gradually, and although the original plan was to introduce them across the board by 2028, no specific information on further expansion is currently available. It remains to be seen what further steps Lidl will take to further improve the shopping experience and offer customers service-oriented solutions, such as 5min.at reported.