I started using grocery self-checkouts during COVID, but I’ve kept using them because there’s rarely a line (and I’m a misanthrope). I’d probably go back to using regular human checkouts if I had to dig through all my crap to prove what I bought.
Having said that, I’ve noticed myself making mistakes. I’ve accidentally failed to scan an item, and I’ve accidentally entered incorrect codes for produce. When I notice, I fix them, but I’ve probably missed a few.
I guess the easiest answer is for grocery chains to reinvest some of those windfall profits and hire more cashiers.
I know it varies by location, but I have been using self checkout for years.
There are always more self checkouts open than there ever where staffed lines. I don’t get in the line that has someone argue over checks or coupons, when a spot opens up the next person gets to start. If I only have a few things I don’t need to spend 25 to 20 minutes in line like I did before self checkout.
Other than a couple years of growing pains, self checkout has been a massive improvement for my general shopping experience. The fact that so many trips are for a few items probably impacts that, but even when picking up a week’s groceries I prefer self checkout.