UK supermarket chain Morrisons has introduced major upgrades to its self-checkout systems across hundreds of stores in 2026. The move is part of the company’s strategy to improve customer experience, reduce queues, and modernize in-store technology.

The latest changes include new self-checkout machines, faster barcode scanning technology, and upgraded payment systems in many locations across the United Kingdom. Around 500 Morrisons stores are expected to receive these improvements.

These upgrades aim to make checkout faster and smoother for shoppers while also helping store staff manage busy shopping periods more efficiently.

Why Morrisons Is Changing Its Self-Checkout System

Retailers around the world are investing heavily in automation and digital technology to improve shopping convenience. Morrisons’ checkout changes are designed to address common customer complaints such as slow scanning and long queues.

According to reports, the supermarket chain is replacing older checkout machines with newer models that scan barcodes more quickly and provide clearer prompts for customers.

The goal is to make the checkout process:

• Faster
• Easier to use
• More reliable during busy hours

These improvements are especially important during peak shopping times such as weekends and holidays.

Key Features of the New Morrisons Self-Checkout Machines

The upgraded machines introduce several improvements compared to older self-checkout systems.

The new technology helps increase the number of customers that can complete purchases in a shorter amount of time.

Rollout Across UK Stores

The self-checkout upgrades started rolling out in 2025 and are continuing into 2026, covering hundreds of Morrisons locations across the UK.

Reports say that older machines are being removed and replaced with new systems in many stores as part of a nationwide modernization project.

Some stores have already completed the upgrade, while others are still in the process of installing the new technology.

A Balance Between Self-Checkout and Staffed Tills

Interestingly, Morrisons has also admitted that it may have installed too many self-checkout machines in the past.

The company is now reviewing the balance between self-service checkouts and traditional staffed tills, as some shoppers prefer human assistance when purchasing large baskets of groceries.

In certain locations, Morrisons has even reduced the number of self-checkout machines and added more staffed checkouts to improve customer satisfaction.

This approach ensures that both types of shoppers are accommodated.

Future Technology: AI Shopping Trolleys

Morrisons is also experimenting with new retail technologies that could further change the shopping experience.

One of the most interesting innovations being tested is AI-powered smart trolleys.

These advanced shopping carts allow customers to:

• Scan products while shopping
• Track their spending in real time
• Pay directly from the trolley without using a checkout machine

The technology is expected to be tested in select stores in 2026.

If successful, this system could significantly reduce the need for traditional checkout lanes.

Benefits for Customers

The checkout changes bring several advantages for Morrisons shoppers.

1. Faster Shopping Experience

Improved scanning technology helps customers complete their purchases more quickly.

2. Shorter Queues

More efficient machines mean fewer delays during busy shopping hours.

3. Easier Payment

Contactless and digital payments work faster on the new systems.

4. Improved Store Flow

Customers can move through stores more smoothly without long checkout lines.

Challenges and Criticism

While many shoppers appreciate faster self-checkout systems, not everyone is happy with automated checkouts.

Some customers prefer traditional cashier service, especially when buying large grocery carts or age-restricted items.

Retail experts also warn that excessive reliance on self-checkout can sometimes increase shoplifting or scanning errors, which is why many supermarkets are trying to find a balanced approach.

How Morrisons Compares to Other Supermarkets

Morrisons is not the only supermarket upgrading its checkout systems.

Other major UK retailers such as:

• Tesco
• Sainsbury’s
• Asda

have also introduced self-checkout machines and digital payment technologies to speed up the shopping process.

However, each retailer is experimenting with different approaches to balance automation and customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What changes has Morrisons made to self-checkouts?

Morrisons is upgrading its self-checkout machines with faster barcode scanners, improved software, and more efficient payment systems.

How many Morrisons stores are getting new self-checkout machines?

Around 500 Morrisons stores across the UK are expected to receive the upgraded checkout systems.

Are Morrisons removing self-checkouts?

In some stores, Morrisons has reduced the number of self-checkout machines and added more staffed tills to improve customer experience.

What are AI shopping trolleys?

AI shopping trolleys allow customers to scan items while shopping and pay directly from the trolley without using a checkout counter.

When will the checkout changes be completed?

The rollout began in 2025 and is continuing through 2026 across many UK stores.

Final Thoughts

The latest Morrisons self-checkout changes reflect the growing role of technology in modern retail. By upgrading its machines and experimenting with innovations like AI shopping trolleys, the supermarket chain aims to make shopping faster and more convenient.

However, the company is also recognizing that many customers still value traditional staffed checkouts. As a result, Morrisons is working to strike the right balance between automation and human service.

For shoppers, the upgrades mean quicker transactions, shorter queues, and a smoother supermarket experience in the years ahead.