Aldi issues reminder over self-checkout 'rule' after shopper 'caught out'

Shoppers have been caught out in the past - with dozens needing to be reminded by staff they 'can't do this'

As one of the most popular supermarkets with Brits, it's no surprise that millions shop with Aldi every day. But, even loyal customers are just discovering a 'little known rule' that could lead to an awkward interaction with staff.

In recent years, self-service checkouts have been added in many stores as an alternative to the speedy tills manned by Aldi staff. However, as one shopper discovered, this is where the issue lies if you aren't already aware.

Janet, who sent a message to Aldi on X, wrote: "Since when did you have 20 items or less on your self-service checkouts? There is no sign saying so. Be nice to know in advance which self-service checkout I can go to."

The supermarket did respond, but the answer didn't satisfy everyone. A spokesperson said: "All stores currently have a 20-item limit on self-checkouts.

"This change is designed to make it simpler and more efficient for you to shop with us. All customers can still use checkouts managed by our amazing colleagues."

While this policy isn't new and has been implemented for several years, it appears that customers are still becoming aware of it via social media. Some customers are not pleased upon finding out.

A shopper named Alan from Milton Keynes shared he’d had issues with the rule. Posting on X, he said: "I’ve always used the self service checkouts since they were installed, but denied access today because staff member said I had more than 20 items.

"In actual fact, I had 19. Doubt I’ll use this branch again, as waiting for usual till queues takes ages!"

When the rule was first announced, an Aldi spokesperson said: "This change will make shopping at Aldi even simpler and more efficient for our customers and has been designed to further improve their experience in-store. All customers can still use checkouts managed by our amazing colleagues."

The concept of self-service checkouts does not appeal to everyone. Earlier this year, both Asda and Morrisons announced that their stores would see a reduction in the number of these tills.

Morrisons claimed it “went a bit too far” in rolling out self-checkouts and will now reverse its policy on the technology.

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